Bluestem Lake in Lancaster County remains under a health alert for harmful algal blooms (HAB), or toxic blue-green algae, for the second week in a row, according to the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment (DWEE).
Recent samples showed microcystin toxin levels above the state threshold of 8 parts per billion. As a result, swimming beaches are closed, and caution signs are posted around the lake. Recreational boating and fishing are still allowed, but officials urge visitors to avoid swallowing water and to keep pets out of the lake.
The health alert does not affect camping, picnicking, or other shoreline activities. Bluestem is one of 56 public lakes monitored weekly by the state from May through September. Results are posted every Friday on DWEE’s website, along with an interactive Beach Watch map.
Officials warn that algae blooms can appear between sampling and reporting, and may occur in unsampled lakes. More information on HAB risks and precautions is available on DWEE’s website.