Marion Reservoir was placed on the highest warning for blue-green algae Thursday as a result of water testing by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

Water with high concentrations of blue-green algae can cause illness or even death in humans and animals if they drink enough. Skin contact can cause irritation.

Under a blue-green algae warning, swim beaches are closed, but other facilities may remain open. It is safe to eat fish caught during an outbreak if they are rinsed and only the fillet is eaten. Anglers also should wash their hands with clean water after handling fish caught during an algae outbreak.

During a warning, KDHE recommends avoiding contact with lake water and preventing animals from drinking the water.

Other lakes on algae warning are Old Herington City Lake, Dickinson County; Logan City Lake, Phillips County; and Memorial/Veterans Lake, Barton County.

Lakes on a less severe algae advisory are Lovewell Reservoir, Jewell County; and South Lake, Johnson County.

Samples of water from the reservoir are taken each Monday for testing. KDHE announces advisories and warnings on Thursdays.

No advisories or warnings are in effect for Marion County Park and Lake.