Stay Far Away From These 7 Lakes In Kansas This Summer Due To A Dangerous Discovery

This dangerous discovery means that you should really find another lake to enjoy while the algae is blooming. In addition, if you spot anything like this growing in a different lake, you should call the Kansas Department of Health and Environment at (785)-296-1664. Most of all, remember that your health is more important than a day out on your favorite lake, and a couple hours out of the way might mean a new great camping spot. You never know!

Blue-green algae is not-so-slowly taking over a select few of our many lakes.

Water that's contaminated isn't safe to drink for anyone, and you shouldn't come into contact with it either, if at all possible. You can still fish, as long as you clean the fish well and only eat the filet section of meat. All in all, you should probably avoid any water-based activities near these lakes to keep you safe. This dangerous discovery can lead to health issues for you and any of your pets.

It looks like your regular "pond scum" but it's more dangerous than you might think.

Concentrated nitrogen and phosphorus from agriculture, sewage, and fertilizer feed the growth of this plant, making it harder for our lakes to thrive. Because it's not eaten by any of our wildlife, it will only grow without any way to stop it. However, you can't treat it with chemicals, because what kills the algae will also hurt the plants and animals we want to keep. Not only will all the algae take a while to starve out, but it will easily come back again afterwards.

Which lakes are currently affected by this dangerous discovery?

Warnings are issued for Kirwin Lake in Phillips County, Marion Reservoir, Milford Reservoir in Geary County and Sam's Pond in Hamilton County. There are three other lakes currently issued a watch, but those lakes should also be avoided as if they were just as bad. Those are Keith Sebelius Reservoir in Norton, Marion County Lake and Webster Lake in Rooks County.

And hey, if you need something else to do, try some of these!