For many years this lake received wastewater effluent from nearby Winter Haven. Efforts were made to clean it up, but apparently it is still overloaded with nutrients.
Given the fact that Florida has more polluted lakes than any other state, we are not surprised.
Our state leaders should be ashamed, but they are without shame.
Read the original article here at ABC Action News.
Comments by OSFR historian Jim Tatum.
jim.tatum@oursantaferiver.org
– A river is like a life: once taken,
it cannot be brought back © Jim Tatum
Health alert issued for dangerous algae blooms in Polk County lake
WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Polk County has issued a health alert for dangerous blue-green algae blooms in Lake Conine.
A water sample taken on April 2nd revealed that the public should use caution in and around the lake.
No one should drink, swim, wade, or use any personal watercraft, boat, or water ski in the lake where the blooms are visible.
If you come in contact with the algae or discolored and smelly water, make sure you wash your skin and clothing thoroughly with soap. Also, keep your pets out of the harmful waters.
No one should use the lake water to wash dishes or cook. Do not eat any shellfish from the lake where the blooms are. However, healthy fish caught from the lakes are still considered safe to eat. Make sure you wash the fish thoroughly with bottled or tap water.
To report a bloom to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEO), call 855-305-3903 or report online.
