Tests Confirm Blue-Green Algae Are Releasing Toxins Posted by - TopicsExpress

Tests Confirm Blue-Green Algae Are Releasing Toxins Posted by Miranda Grossman / CBS 12 News MARTIN COUNTY, Fla. -- Recent Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) test results on three samples taken from the St. Lucie River have confirmed that Microcystis aeruginosa, a type of blue-green algae also known as cyanobacteria are releasing toxins. These toxins can be harmful to people and pets. The Florida Department of Health in Martin County is urging residents to avoid contact with visible algae in the St. Lucie River from the Okeechobee Canal to the St. Lucie Inlet. Exposure to water containing algae toxins may cause nausea and vomiting if ingested and rash or hay fever symptoms if touched or inhaled. Sunlight, temperatures, physical conditions, precipitation and the water’s nutrients contribute to the formation of algae. If you spot blue-green algae, contact the Department of Environmental Protection at (772) 467-5572. To report fish kills or abnormal fish behavior call: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, 1-800-636-0511 For information log on to: MartinCountyHealth doh.state.fl.us/environment/medicine/aquatic/cyanobacteria.htm Bacteria levels The Martin County Health Department conducted bacteria sampling in four St. Lucie River locations yesterday including the Roosevelt Bridge, Sandsprit Park, Leighton Park in Palm City and the Stuart Sandbar. Samples were also collected at ocean beaches and Indian River Lagoon Causeways. “The bacteria sample at Stuart Sandbar came back in the good range, however, the advisory will remain in effect at that location until tests remain consistently in the good range.” said Bob Washam, Environmental Health Director for the Florida Department of Health in Martin County. “The other St. Lucie River locations remain in the poor range.” The bacteria results for the ocean beaches and causeways are satisfactory. The Martin County Health Department will retest the river and beach locations for bacteria levels on Monday, August 12.