As spring approaches, the City of Austin is reminding residents to be extra careful around local waterways due to the presence of blue-green algae mats that may be toxic.
Austin Watershed Protection staff observed the algae in Austin’s lakes and creeks over the winter, according to a Tuesday press release. The mats look like dark blobs floating on the water surface and can sometimes mix in with other types of algae.
Upcoming spring weather conditions will be more favorable to the algae, and the Watershed Protection department expects to see more buildup in local waterways. Residents should avoid contact with the algae and take the following precautions before entering water.
Before You Enter Public WaterwaysLook for algae along the shoreline.Watch for stagnant, warm, or murky water.Don’t enter the water if there is scum, surface film, or visible algae.Avoid water altogether if there has been rain in the past three days.After Entering Public WaterwaysDon’t drink water from any natural water bodies.Avoid contact with algae.Rinse skin and animal fur thoroughly after contact with water.Don’t allow dogs to lick their fur before rinsing.
Of course, accidents happen. If you or your pet experiences sudden and unexplained illness after swimming, immediately contact your medical provider or a veterinarian. Residents are highly encouraged to report suspected human or animal illnesses related to algae using the city’s online reporting form.
Residents should note that there is always some level of risk when spending time in public waterways. Natural water bodies contain algae, bacteria, parasites, and other hazards. The Watershed Protection department monitors water quality in the city’s lakes and creeks to understand how the urban environment affects our water bodies, but it does not regularly test for recreational use.