The state has issued a health alert for harmful algal blooms (HAB), or toxic blue-green algae, at Bluestem Lake in Lancaster County.
Cub Creek Lake in Jefferson County will also remain under a health alert for a second week. Recent water samples from both lakes measured above the state threshold of 8 parts per billion of total microcystin, a toxin produced by some algae.
When a health alert is issued, swimming beaches are closed and signs are posted. Boating and fishing are still allowed, but the public is advised to avoid direct contact with the water and to keep pets out. Camping and picnicking areas remain open.
The Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment (DWEE) monitors 56 public lakes weekly from May through September. Results are updated every Friday and posted online at DWEE’s Beach Watch map.
Officials caution that harmful blooms may appear between tests, so residents should use care if they see algae on the water’s surface.