This week, toxic algae blooms have been identified at East Park pond in Interlocken and Trails Pond in Westlake. Signs have been posted in both areas. Residents should not touch or recreate in the water. Residents should also not allow pets to touch, swim in, or drink the water. Toxic algae can cause a variety of symptoms in people, including skin irritation, diarrhea, stomach pain, fever, headache, and sore throat. Toxic algae can kill pets, especially dogs.
Hot summer months are the peak months for toxic algae blooms in Colorado. City and County staff regularly monitor and test ponds, and will continue to post signage in affected areas. Signage will be removed when the pond water is safe.
At this time of year, residents should always be aware that ponds and lakes could potentially have toxic algae blooms. Only lab tests can determine if an algae bloom is toxic, but algae that may contain toxins has certain characteristics. Residents and their pets should stay out of water that:
- Has an unpleasant smell
- Resembles thick pea soup or spilled paint on the water’s surface
- Looks discolored - generally green, red, gold, or turquoise
- Has foam, scum, or large clumps of algae
- Has dead fish or other animals on shore
Learn more about harmful algal blooms and how to identify them at Broomfield.org/Algae.