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Algae Testing Finds Low-Level Toxins in Lake Hasty; John Martin Reservoir Remains Toxin-Free
Description: Water testing found low-level cyanobacteria toxins in Lake Hasty below Colorado’s recreational threshold, while no toxins were detected in John Martin Reservoir. Both lakes remain open under swim-at-your-own-risk notices...
There have been a few questions about some of the algae notices around the lake, so to make sure you're all informed, here are the facts:
Last Friday an algae bloom was picked up on satellite on John Martin Reservoir, thanks to warm water temperatures and no wind. Park staff immediately put out warning notices, performed several tests, and sent samples to Denver to test the water in both Lake Hasty and John Martin Reservoir.
Test results came back this afternoon, and they noted several different types of algae. The samples from John Martin Reservoir showed two types of algae capable of producing cyanobacteria, but at this time no toxins are present in the reservoir. The samples from Lake Hasty showed one algae capable of producing cyanobacteria, and it is currently producing toxins at 2.5 ug/L. Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment lists the recreation threshold at >8 ug/L. Since Lake Hasty is below the threshold, it will remain open to recreation.
At this time, notices will continue to be posted around both lakes, but we will not be closing either to swimming, they will both be, "swim at your own risk." Algae is very dynamic and can change based on weather and water conditions hour-to-hour.
Also attached are some pretty neat images of the algae. Please call our office at 719-829-1801 or direct message us if you have questions.
Image Gallery
