If you were planning a trip to Lake Echo this week, health officials are urging you to stay on dry land. The Florida Department of Health in Polk County (DOH-Polk) issued an advisory on December 29 regarding a blue-green algae bloom observed in the northwest portion of the lake.
While crews are currently testing water samples to determine toxicity levels, officials are advising the public not to wait for the results. Because environmental conditions can shift rapidly, the department suggests treating the water as potentially hazardous immediately.
Safety Precautions for Residents
The advisory is strict: avoid all contact with the water where blooms are visible. This includes swimming, wading, and using personal watercraft like jet skis. The algae can produce toxins that pose health risks to humans and are often dangerous to animals.
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If you or your clothing come into contact with the algae—or any water that is discolored or smells unpleasant—you should wash thoroughly with soap and water as soon as possible.
Warning for Pet and Livestock Owners
Animal owners need to be especially vigilant. The toxins produced by blue-green algae can be severe for pets and livestock. Officials warn that animals should be kept away from the shoreline entirely to prevent them from drinking or swimming in the lake. If a bloom is present, an alternative water source should be provided for all animals.
Fishing and Consumption Guidelines
Residents are warned not to use lake water for cooking or cleaning dishes. It is important to note that boiling the water does not remove the toxins.
However, anglers do not necessarily need to pack up their gear. Fillets from healthy fish caught in the lake are generally safe to eat, provided they are rinsed with bottled or tap water, the guts are discarded, and the meat is cooked thoroughly. Shellfish, however, should not be harvested or eaten from the affected waters.
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Understanding the Bloom
Blue-green algae are actually a type of bacteria common in Florida’s freshwater environments. Blooms occur when rapid growth causes cells to pile up, often discoloring the water or creating floating mats that emit a foul odor. These blooms are fueled by sunny days, warm water temperatures, and excess nutrients.
Reporting and Resources
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is actively monitoring the situation. Residents can track the status of the water via the DEP’s Algal Bloom Dashboard.
- To report a bloom: Call the DEP toll-free at 1-855-305-3903.
- Health concerns: If you experience symptoms from exposure, contact the Florida Poison Information Center at 800-222-1222.
- Wildlife issues: Report fish kills or abnormal wildlife behavior to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 800-636-0511.
For further questions, residents can contact DOH-Polk at 863-578-2024.
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