Updated Water Sampling Results For Toxic Algae In Loveless Lake

POLK COUNTY -- Polk County Land and Water Resources and Public Health Departments have received the microcystin toxicity reports from Loveless Lake water samples.

The most recent water samples taken weekly from June 15 to July 12 indicate the toxic algae water level have been at an acceptable level according to the US EPA.

The Polk County Health Department and Polk County Land and Water Resource staff have been monitoring the lake water since March, 2021 when toxicity levels resulting from cyanobacteria (algae) measured above US EPA acceptable levels of 8 ug/L.

Weekly testing was completed by Polk County Land and Water Resource staff near the boat landing at Loveless Lake. Weekly testing and monitoring will continue until Labor Day and results will be posted at www.polkcountyhealthdept.org.

Based on the unpredictable pattern of the toxic algae bloom, caution should be used when participating in recreational water activities at Loveless Lake. A water quality advisory is still in effect at Loveless Lake.

To protect yourself, family, or pets from illness:

• Do not touch mats of algae, scum layers, foam or other visible blooms of blue- green algae.
• Do not swim in areas where water is discolored or where you see foam, scum, or mats of algae on the water’s surface.
• Do not eat fish organs, only fish filets. Rinse filets well with clean water before cooking or freezing. Wash your hands or shower off with soap and water after catching and cleaning fish.
• Do not let dogs drink or swim in lake water during an algal bloom.
• Do not let dogs eat algal scum or lick it off their fur.
• Always wash your hands or shower off with soap and water after participating in recreational water activities.
• Always wash pets with clean water immediately if he/she swims or wades in water during algal blooms.
• Do not use lake water for irrigation on lawns. The lake water contains small pieces of the algae. Children and pets can encounter the algae when playing in lawns after irrigation.

At this time, no reports of illness related to activities within the lake have been reported.

Informational signs notifying the public are posted at Loveless Lake.

Permanent water quality advisory signs that include toxic algae pictures and best public health practices have been installed at the Loveless Lake boat landing.