Algae alert shifts to reservoir

Just seven days after three weeks of blue-green algae warnings at the county lake were lifted, a less-serious algae watch was issued Thursday for the federal reservoir.

The watch, which does not bar access to the reservoir, means blue-green algae have been detected, and visitors should be careful to avoid any blooms that may develop.

Pets should not eat dried algae or drink contaminated water. Contact with the water is discouraged, especially near visible blooms. Boating, skiing, swimming, and fishing still are considered safe, but visitors should wash with clean water afterward.

Only the filet portion of fish should be eaten and only after the fish is washed with clean water.

Heavy rainfall can increase the threat of algae.