Horseshoe Lake contaminated

Cyanobacteria has been detected in Upper Bidwell Park’s Horseshoe Lake, according to a press release from Butte County Public Health. Lab results showed concentrations above state warning levels. The city of Chico’s Park Division has barricaded the lake and is urging visitors to keep their dogs leashed and away from the water.

That’s not all: Department of Water Resources officials have discovered algae blooms in Lake Oroville and a warning is in place at the Middle Fork.

Cyanobacteria can cause harmful algal blooms after becoming overactive—generally spurred by warm weather, stagnant water or excessive nutrients. Those exposed should rinse with clean water as soon as possible to avoid poisoning. Symptoms can occur within 48 hours and include sore throat, congestion, coughing, a rash, blisters or hives, earache, diarrhea or vomiting, agitation, headache and abdominal pain.