Tag: harmful algae bloom

Lake Anna Harmful Algae Bloom Advisory Lifted

November 7, 2024
Media Contact: Brookie Crawford, brookie.crawford@vdh.virginia.gov

Lake Anna Harmful Algae Bloom Advisory Lifted
Virginia Harmful Algal Bloom Task Force Suspends Response Sampling for 2024 Season

RICHMOND, Va. – Effective immediately, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is lifting the harmful algae bloom (HAB) advisory for Lake Anna due to the end of the recreational season.

The Upper North Anna Branches has experienced a HAB since June. In July, the advisory was extended to include the Middle North Anna Branch and the Upper and Middle Pamunkey Branches and Terry’s Run.

Results of samples collected September 18 and October 15 for Upper and Middle Pamunkey Branch indicated potentially toxic cyanobacteria were at acceptable levels allowing the advisory to be lifted.

To lift advisories, VDH needs two acceptable samples collected at least 10 days apart. While the October 15 sample results from the Upper and Middle Pamunkey branches and Terry’s Run were at acceptable levels, the September 18 sample results were at unsafe levels of cyanobacteria. No additional sampling is planned.

The Virginia Harmful Algal Bloom Task Force suspends response sampling and any active HAB advisories at the end of October each year when the recreational (swimming) season concludes and temperatures begin cooling in natural waters.

Algae blooms, which are still present in November in areas of a waterbody, may persist into late fall and possibly winter months. The public should avoid discolored water or scums that are green or bluish-green because they are more likely to contain toxins.

The Virginia Harmful Algal Bloom Task Force, which includes the VDH, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, and the Old Dominion University Phytoplankton Laboratory, will resume response efforts in May 2025, weather permitting.

For more information visit www.SwimHealthyVA.com.

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Swimming Advisory for Lake Anna Extended to Include Terry’s Run due to Harmful Algae Bloom

July 24, 2024
Media Contact:  Brookie Crawford, Brookie.Crawford@vdh.virginia.gov

Swimming Advisory for Lake Anna Extended to Include Terry’s Run due to Harmful Algae Bloom
Public Advised to Avoid Water Contact with Sections of Lake Anna

RICHMOND, Va. – Out of an abundance of caution, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is extending the swimming advisory for Lake Anna to include Terry’s Run a tributary of Upper Pamunkey Creek due to reports of a harmful algae bloom (HAB).

This HAB is not associated with the outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) at Lake Anna area, as that pathogen is not associated with HABs.

On July 23, the Department of Environmental Quality reported a visual observation of bloom activity on Terry’s Run. Samples were not collected on Terry’s Run to conserve resources. A citizen also submitted an Online HAB Report Form indicating visual bloom observations on Terry’s Run.

The sections of the lake currently under a swimming advisory due to unsafe levels of cyanobacteria are:

North Anna Branch (advisory extended)

  • Upper North Anna Branch – From the upper inundated waters of the North Anna arm, to include the “Sandbar” of the lake and downstream to the Route 522 Bridge.
  • Upper and Middle North Anna Branch – From the Route 522 Bridge, to include Route 719 (Holladay Bridge), to Lumsden Flats at Rose Valley Drive.

Pamunkey Branch (advisory added)

  • Upper-Upper Pamunkey Branch- From the upper inundated waters of Pamunkey Branch to Runnymede Park.
  • Upper Pamunkey Branch – From Runnymede Park to the confluence with Terry’s Run.
  • **NEW**Terry’s Run – From the upper inundated waters of Terry’s Run to the confluence with Upper Pamunkey Branch.
  • Middle Pamunkey Branch – From confluence with Terry’s Run to Route 612 (Stubbs Bridge).

Some harmful algae, called cyanobacteria, can cause skin rash and gastrointestinal illnesses, such as an upset stomach, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. The area to avoid can be seen on an interactive Harmful Algal Bloom map.

Cyanobacteria have the potential to produce toxins. One cyanotoxin was detected at both Upper North Anna and Pamunkey Branch sites, but below levels of health concern. People and pets are advised to avoid swimming, windsurfing and stand-up-paddle-boarding, as well as other activities that pose a risk of ingesting water. Activities such as boating may continue with proper precaution in advisory areas.

Follow-up monitoring above Route 208 on the lake is planned (weather permitting) for the week of August 15. Algae blooms can occur when warm water and nutrients combine to make conditions favorable for algae growth. Most algae species are harmless; however, some species may produce irritating compounds or toxins. Avoid discolored water or scums that are green or bluish-green because they are more likely to contain toxins.

To prevent illness, people should:

  • Avoid contact with any area of the lake where water is green or an advisory sign is posted, WHEN IN DOUBT, STAY OUT!
  • Never allow children or pets to drink from natural bodies of water.
  • Keep children and pets out of the areas experiencing a harmful algae bloom and quickly wash them off with plenty of fresh, clean water after coming into contact with algae scum or bloom water.
  • Seek medical/veterinarian care if you or your animals experience symptoms after swimming in or near an algal bloom.
  • Properly clean fish by removing skin and discarding all internal organs and cooking fish to the proper temperature to ensure fish fillets are safe to eat.
  • Contact the Harmful Algal Bloom Hotline at 1-888-238-6154 if they suspect they experienced health-related effects following exposure to a bloom.
  • Visit www.SwimHealthyVA.com to learn more about harmful algae blooms or to report an algae bloom or fish kill.

VDH and the Virginia Harmful Algal Bloom Task Force, which includes the VDH, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, and the Old Dominion University Phytoplankton Laboratory, will continue to monitor water quality in the lake. In general, advisories will be lifted following two consecutive test results with acceptable levels for algal cell counts and/or toxin concentration.

For more information, visit www.SwimHealthyVA.com.

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Swimming Advisory Extended for Lake Anna in Louisa, Spotsylvania Counties due to Harmful Algae Bloom

July 22, 2024
Media Contact:  Brookie Crawford, Brookie.Crawford@vdh.virginia.gov

Swimming Advisory Extended for Lake Anna in Louisa, Spotsylvania Counties due to Harmful Algae Bloom
Public Advised to Avoid Water Contact with Sections of Lake Anna

RICHMOND, Va. – The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is extending a swimming advisory for the North Anna Branch of Lake Anna and adding a swimming advisory for the Upper and Middle sections of the Pamunkey Branch of Lake Anna. These sections of the lake are experiencing a harmful algae bloom (HAB). The public is advised to avoid contact with this specific area of the lake until algae concentrations return to acceptable levels.

This HAB is not associated with the recent outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) at Lake Anna area, as that pathogen is not associated with HABs.

The section of the lake currently under a swimming advisory due to unsafe levels of cyanobacteria is:

North Anna Branch (advisory extended)

  • Upper North Anna Branch – From the upper inundated waters of the North Anna arm, to include the “Sandbar” of the lake and downstream to the Route 522 Bridge.
  • Upper and Middle North Anna Branch – From the Route 522 Bridge, to include Route 719 (Holladay Bridge), to Lumsden Flats at Rose Valley Drive

Pamunkey Branch (advisory added)

  • Upper-Upper Pamunkey Branch- From the upper inundated waters of Pamunkey Branch to Runnymede Park
  • Upper Pamunkey Branch – From Runnymede Park to the confluence with Terry’s Run
  • Middle Pamunkey Branch – From confluence with Terry’s Run to Route 612 (Stubbs Bridge)

Some harmful algae, called cyanobacteria, can cause skin rash and gastrointestinal illnesses, such as an upset stomach, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. The area to avoid can be seen on an interactive Harmful Algal Bloom map. A status report containing the updated advisory areas may be viewed at Lake Anna HAB Status Report 7.22.2024.

Cyanobacteria have the potential to produce toxins. One cyanotoxin was detected at both Upper North Anna and Pamunkey Branch sites, but below levels of health concern. People and pets are advised to avoid swimming, windsurfing and stand-up-paddle-boarding, as well as other activities that pose a risk of ingesting water. Activities such as boating may continue with proper precaution in advisory areas.

To prevent illness, people should:

  • Avoid contact with any area of the lake where water is green or an advisory sign is posted, WHEN IN DOUBT, STAY OUT!
  • Never allow children or pets to drink from natural bodies of water.
  • Keep children and pets out of the areas experiencing a harmful algae bloom and quickly wash them off with plenty of fresh, clean water after coming into contact with algae scum or bloom water.
  • Seek medical/veterinarian care if you or your animals experience symptoms after swimming in or near an algal bloom.
  • Properly clean fish by removing skin and discarding all internal organs and cooking fish to the proper temperature to ensure fish fillets are safe to eat.
  • Contact the Harmful Algal Bloom Hotline at 1-888-238-6154 if they suspect they experienced health-related effects following exposure to a bloom.
  • Visit www.SwimHealthyVA.com to learn more about harmful algae blooms or to report an algae bloom or fish kill.

The advisory will be lifted when algae concentrations return to acceptable levels. Follow-up monitoring above Route 208 on the lake is planned (weather permitting) for the week of August 15. Algae blooms can occur when warm water and nutrients combine to make conditions favorable for algae growth. Most algae species are harmless; however, some species may produce irritating compounds or toxins. Avoid discolored water or scums that are green or bluish-green because they are more likely to contain toxins.

VDH and the Virginia Harmful Algal Bloom Task Force, which includes the VDH, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, and the Old Dominion University Phytoplankton Laboratory, will continue to monitor water quality in the lake. In general, advisories will be lifted following two consecutive test results with acceptable levels for algal cell counts and/or toxin concentration.

For more information visit www.SwimHealthyVA.com.

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Harmful Algae Bloom Advisory for Mill Creek Lake in Amherst County

July 17, 2024
Media Contact:  Linda Scarborough, PIO Western Region, Linda.Scarborough@vdh.virginia.gov

Harmful Algae Bloom Advisory for Mill Creek Lake in Amherst County
Public Advised to Avoid Water Contact

Amherst County, Va. – Mill Creek Lake in Amherst County is experiencing a harmful algae bloom (HAB). The Virginia Department of Health is warning citizens to stay out of the water and to keep their pets and children out as well. The public is advised to avoid contact with the lake until algae concentrations return to acceptable levels. Some harmful algae, called cyanobacteria, can cause skin rash and gastrointestinal illnesses, such as upset stomach, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

People and pets are advised to avoid swimming, as well as other activities that pose a risk of ingesting water. Due to low body weight, children and pets are at greater risk of severe illness if the water is ingested. Activities such as boating may continue with proper precaution in advisory areas.

Algae blooms can occur when warm water and nutrients combine to make conditions favorable for algae growth. Most algae species are harmless; however, some species may produce irritating compounds or toxins. Avoid discolored water or scums that are green or bluish-green because they are more likely to contain toxins.

To prevent illness, people should:

  • Avoid contact with any area of the lake where water is green or an advisory sign is posted,
  • WHEN IN DOUBT, STAY OUT!
  • Not allow children or pets to drink from natural bodies of water.
  • Keep children and pets out of the areas experiencing a harmful algae bloom and quickly wash them off with plenty of fresh, clean water after coming into contact with algae scum or bloom water.
  • Seek medical/veterinarian care if you or your animals experience symptoms after swimming in or near an algal bloom.
  • Properly clean fish by removing skin and discarding all internal organs and cook fish to the proper temperature to ensure fish fillets are safe to eat.

The area to avoid can be seen on an interactive Harmful Algal Bloom map. To lift advisories, there must be two acceptable samples collected at least 10 days apart. District health departments may accept results for samples collected less than 10 days apart at their discretion.

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and the Virginia Harmful Algal Bloom Task Force, which includes the VDH, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, and the Old Dominion University Phytoplankton Laboratory, will continue to monitor water quality in the lake. In general, advisories will be lifted following two consecutive test results with acceptable levels for algal cell counts and/or toxin concentration.

Contact the Harmful Algal Bloom Hotline at 1-888-238-6154 if you suspect you experienced health-related effects following exposure to a bloom.

Visit www.SwimHealthyVA.com to learn more about harmful algae blooms or to report an algae bloom or fish kill.

 

Swimming Advisory Issued for Upper North Anna Branch of Lake Anna in Louisa County due to Harmful Algae Bloom

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – June 21, 2024
Media Contact:  Brookie Crawford, Brookie.Crawford@vdh.virginia.gov

Swimming Advisory Issued for Upper North Anna Branch of Lake Anna in Louisa County due to Harmful Algae Bloom
Public Advised to Avoid Water Contact with Section of Lake Anna Above Route 522

 RICHMOND, Va. – The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is issuing a swimming advisory for the Upper section of the North Anna Branch of Lake Anna in Louisa County. This section of the lake is experiencing a harmful algae bloom (HAB). The public is advised to avoid contact with this specific area of the lake until algae concentrations return to acceptable levels.

The section of the lake currently under a swimming advisory due to unsafe levels of cyanobacteria is:

  • North Anna Branch (advisory issued) – From the upper inundated waters of the North Anna arm, to include the “Sandbar” of the lake and downstream to the Route 522 Bridge.

Some harmful algae, called cyanobacteria, can cause skin rash and gastrointestinal illnesses, such as an upset stomach, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. The area to avoid can be seen on an interactive Harmful Algal Bloom map. A status report containing the updated advisory areas may be viewed at Lake Anna HAB Status Report 6.21.2024.

Cyanobacteria have the potential to produce toxins. One cyanotoxin was detected at both Upper North Anna and Pamunkey Branch sites, but below levels of health concern. People and pets are advised to avoid swimming, windsurfing, and stand-up-paddle-boarding, as well as other activities that pose a risk of ingesting water. Activities such as boating may continue with proper precaution in advisory areas.

Follow-up monitoring above Route 208 on the lake is planned (weather permitting) for the week of July 15. Algae blooms can occur when warm water and nutrients combine to make conditions favorable for algae growth. Most algae species are harmless; however, some species may produce irritating compounds or toxins. Avoid discolored water or scums that are green or bluish-green because they are more likely to contain toxins.

To prevent illness, people should:

  • Avoid contact with any area of the lake where water is green or an advisory sign is posted,
  • WHEN IN DOUBT, STAY OUT!
  • Never allow children or pets to drink from natural bodies of water.
  • Keep children and pets out of the areas experiencing a harmful algae bloom and quickly wash them off with plenty of fresh, clean water after coming into contact with algae scum or bloom water.
  • Seek medical/veterinarian care if you or your animals experience symptoms after swimming in or near an algal bloom.
  • Properly clean fish by removing skin and discarding all internal organs and cooking fish to the proper temperature to ensure fish fillets are safe to eat.
  • Contact the Harmful Algal Bloom Hotline at 1-888-238-6154 if they suspect they experienced health-related effects following exposure to a bloom.
  • Visit www.SwimHealthyVA.com to learn more about harmful algae blooms or to report an algae bloom or fish kill.

This HAB is not associated with the outbreak of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) at Lake Anna area, as that pathogen is not associated with HABs.

VDH and the Virginia Harmful Algal Bloom Task Force, which includes the VDH, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, and the Old Dominion University Phytoplankton Laboratory, will continue to monitor water quality in the lake. In general, advisories will be lifted following two consecutive test results with acceptable levels for algal cell counts and/or toxin concentration.

For more information visit www.SwimHealthyVA.com.

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21 de junio de 2024
Persona de Contacto con los medios de comunicación: Brookie Crawford, brookie.crawford@vdh.virginia.gov  

 Aviso de precaución para el baño en la sección superior del North Anna Branch
de Lake Anna en Louisa County, debido a la proliferación de algas nocivas
Se aconseja al público que evite el contacto con el agua en la sección de Lake Anna por encima de Route 522  

 RICHMOND, Va – El Departamento de Salud de Virginia (VDH) está emitiendo un aviso de precaución para el baño en la sección superior de North Anna Branch de Lake Anna en Louisa County. Esta sección del lago está experimentando una proliferación de algas nocivas (FAN, por sus siglas en inglés). Se aconseja al público que evite entrar en contacto con esta zona específica del lago hasta que las concentraciones de algas vuelvan a niveles aceptables.  

La sección del lago que se encuentra actualmente bajo advertencia para el baño debido a niveles peligrosos de cianobacterias es: 

  • North Anna Branch (aviso publicado) — Desde las aguas inundadas superiores del North Anna Branch, incluyendo el “Sandbar” del lago y la corriente hacia abajo hasta el puente de Route 522. 

Algunas algas nocivas, llamadas cianobacterias, pueden causar erupciones en la piel y enfermedades gastrointestinales, como malestar en el estómago, náuseas, vómitos y diarrea. La zona a evitar puede verse en el mapa interactivo de proliferación de algas nocivas. Se puede consultar un informe actualizado de las zonas con advertencia en Lake Anna HAB Status Report 6.21.2024. 

Las cianobacterias pueden producir toxinas. Se detectó una cianotoxina tanto en Upper North Anna como en Pamunkey Branch, pero por debajo de niveles peligrosos para la salud. Se recomienda que las personas y las mascotas eviten nadar, hacer windsurf y paddle board y otras actividades que supongan riesgo de tragar agua. Otras actividades, como la navegación, pueden continuar siempre que se tomen las debidas precauciones en las zonas con aviso. 

 El control del agua en la zona del lago por encima de Route 208 está previsto (siempre que el tiempo lo permita) para la semana del 15 de julio. La proliferación de algas puede producirse cuando el agua caliente y los fertilizantes se combinan y crean condiciones favorables para su crecimiento. La mayoría de las especies de algas son inofensivas, pero algunas pueden producir sustancias irritantes o toxinas. Evite el agua descolorida o los residuos de color verde o verde azulado, ya que es muy probable que contengan toxinas. 

 Para prevenir enfermedades, debe: 

  • Evitar el contacto con cualquier zona del lago donde el agua esté verde o haya una señal de advertencia, EN CASO DE DUDA, ¡QUÉDESE FUERA! 
  • Nunca permita que los niños o las mascotas beban de cuerpos de agua naturales. 
  • Mantenga a los niños y a las mascotas alejados de las zonas en las que haya proliferación de algas nocivas y lávelos rápidamente con abundante agua limpia después de entrar en contacto con la espuma o el agua de las algas. 
  • Busque atención médica/veterinaria si usted o sus animales experimentan síntomas después de nadar en o cerca de una proliferación de algas. 
  • Limpie correctamente el pescado, retirando la piel y desechando todos los órganos internos, y cocínelo a la temperatura adecuada para garantizar que sea seguro para el consumo. 
  • Póngase en contacto con la línea directa Harmful Algal Bloom, llamando al 1-888-238-6154, si piensa que tiene síntomas relacionados con la exposición a las algas nocivas. 
  • Visite www.SwimHealthyVA.com para obtener más información sobre la proliferación de algas nocivas o para notificar una proliferación de algas o la muerte de peces. 

 Esta proliferación de algas nocivas no está vinculada con el brote de Escherichia coli productora de toxina Shiga (STEC, por sus siglas en inglés) en la zona de Lake Anna, ya que ese patógeno no está relacionado con las algas nocivas.   

VDH y el Virginia Harmful Algal Bloom Task Force (Equipo de trabajo para el control de proliferaciones de algas nocivas de Virginia), que incluye VDH, Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (Departamento de Calidad Medioambiental de Virginia) y Old Dominion University Phytoplankton Laboratory (Laboratorio de Fitoplancton de Old Dominion University), seguirán vigilando la calidad del agua del lago. En general, las advertencias se retiran después de dos pruebas consecutivas con niveles aceptables de recuento de células de algas y/o concentración de toxinas. 

Para más información, visite: www.SwimHealthyVA.com.  

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Lake Anna Harmful Algae Bloom Advisory Lifted for Middle North Anna Branch

October 17, 2023
Media Contact:  Brookie Crawford, brookie.crawford@vdh.virginia.gov

Lake Anna Harmful Algae Bloom Advisory Lifted for Middle North Anna Branch
Advisory Remains in effect for the Upper North Anna and Upper Pamunkey Branches

RICHMOND, Va. – Effective immediately, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is lifting the harmful algae bloom (HAB) advisory for the Middle North Anna Branch of Lake Anna in Louisa County. However, the HAB advisory for the Upper North Anna and Upper Pamunkey branches remains in effect. A status report containing the updated information may be viewed at Lake Anna Status Report 10/16/23.

The Middle North Anna Branch has experienced a HAB since August. Results of samples collected September 19 and October 10 indicated potentially toxic cyanobacteria were acceptable levels allowing the advisory to be lifted.

The Upper North Anna and the Upper Pamunkey branches have also been under a HAB advisory since August. To lift advisories, VDH needs two acceptable samples collected at least 10 days apart. While the October 10 sample results from the Upper North Anna and Upper Pamunkey branches were at acceptable levels, the September 19 sample results were at unsafe levels of cyanobacteria (>100,000 cells/ml). No additional sampling is planned for the remainder of October.

The public is recommended to be aware of and to avoid discolored water or scums which may be present from the upper inundated areas of the inundated waters of North Anna Branch down to the Rt. 522 Bridge and from the upper inundated waters of the Pamunkey Branch to the vicinity of Runnymede Park.

The Virginia Harmful Algal Bloom Task Force suspends response sampling and any active HAB advisories at the end of October each year when the recreational (swimming) season concludes and temperatures begin cooling in natural waters. Algae blooms which are still present in October/November in areas of a waterbody may persist into late fall and possibly winter months. The public should avoid discolored water or scums that are green or bluish-green because they are more likely to contain toxins.

The Virginia Harmful Algal Bloom Task Force, which includes the VDH, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, and the Old Dominion University Phytoplankton Laboratory, will resume response efforts in May 2024, weather permitting.

For more information visit www.SwimHealthyVA.com.

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Harmful Algae Bloom Advisory Issued for Upper Pamunkey Branch

September 22, 2023

Media Contact:Linda Scarborough, Linda.Scarborough@vdh.virginia.gov 
Brookie Crawford, Brookie.Crawford@vdh.virginia.gov

Harmful Algae Bloom Advisory Issued for Upper Pamunkey Branch; Upper and Middle North Anna Branch Advisories on Lake Anna Remain in Place
Public should avoid swimming in areas under advisory

RICHMOND, Va. – The Upper Pamunkey along with the Upper and Middle sections of North Anna Branch of Lake Anna in Louisa County is experiencing a harmful algae bloom (HAB). The public is advised to avoid contact with this specific area of the lake until algae concentrations return to acceptable levels.  Toxin results for samples are pending and should be available next week. The status report will reflect those updates (see link below). Some harmful algae, called cyanobacteria, can cause skin rash and gastrointestinal illnesses, such as upset stomach, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. The area to avoid can be seen on an interactive Harmful Algal Bloom map. A status report containing the updated advisory areas based on samples collected on September 19 may be viewed at Lake Anna HAB Status Report 9.22.2023.

The sections of the lake currently under a swimming advisory due to unsafe levels of cyanobacteria:

Advisory Issued:

  • Upper Pamunkey Branch (advisory issued 9/22/23)– From the upper inundated waters of Pamunkey Branch to Runnymede Park

Advisories which remain in place:

  • Upper North Anna Branch –From the upper inundated waters of the North Anna arm of the lake downstream to the Rt. 522 Bridge.
  • Middle North Anna Branch – From the Rt. 522 Bridge, to include Rt. 719 (Holladay Bridge), to Lumsden Flats at Rose Valley Dr.

Results for the Middle North Anna Branch were acceptable (pending toxin results). If toxin results are acceptable, this is the first of two samples required to lift the advisory.

The area to avoid can be seen on an interactive Harmful Algal Bloom map. A status report containing the updated advisory areas may be viewed at Lake Anna HAB Status Report 9.22.2023.  To lift advisories, there must be two acceptable samples collected at least 10 days apart. District health departments may accept results for samples collected less than 10 days apart at their discretion. The next sampling date is planned for the week of September 27, 2023 (weather permitting).

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and the Virginia Harmful Algal Bloom Task Force, which includes the VDH, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, and the Old Dominion University Phytoplankton Laboratory, will continue to monitor water quality in the lake. In general, advisories will be lifted following two consecutive test results with acceptable levels for algal cell counts and/or toxin concentration.

For more information visit www.SwimHealthyVA.com.

Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) Advisory No Longer in Effect for Blackwater River Arm of Smith Mountain Lake in Franklin County, VA

August 24, 2023
Media Contact: Linda Scarborough, Linda.Scarborough@vdh.virginia.gov

Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) Advisory No Longer in Effect for Blackwater River Arm of Smith Mountain Lake in Franklin County, VA
Public may resume normal recreational activities.

SMITH MOUNTAIN LAKE, Va. – The harmful algal bloom (HAB) advisory in the Upper Blackwater River arm of Smith Mountain Lake in Franklin County is no longer in effect.

The Upper Blackwater River had acceptable levels of algae in samples collected July 13 and August 15, allowing Virginia Department of Health (VDH) to lift the advisory from the upper inundated areas of the Blackwater River to its confluence with Gills Creek. Normal recreational activities may resume in the area of the Upper Blackwater River.

The public should continue to be aware of and avoid water that smells, is discolored, or where there are dead fish present.

Algal blooms can occur when warm water and nutrients combine to make conditions favorable for algal growth. Most algal species are harmless. However, some species may produce irritating compounds or toxins. Avoid discolored water or scums that are green or bluish-green because they are more likely to contain toxins.

To prevent illness, people should:

  • Avoid contact with any area of the lake where scums are present, WHEN IN DOUBT, STAY OUT!
  • Not allow children or pets to drink from natural bodies of water.
  • Always cleanse skin, clothing, and your pet’s fur after swimming in the lake with plenty of fresh, clean soapy water after.
  • Properly clean fish by removing skin and discarding all internal organs and cook fish to the proper temperature to ensure fish fillets are safe to eat.
  • Visit SwimHealthyVA.com to learn more about harmful algal blooms or to report an algal bloom or fish kill.

For more information visit www.SwimHealthyVA.com.

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Harmful Algae Bloom Advisory Issued for Middle Section of North Anna Branch of Lake Anna

August 18, 2023
Media Contact:  Brookie Crawford, brookie.crawford@vdh.virginia.gov

Harmful Algae Bloom Advisory Issued for Middle Section of North Anna Branch of Lake Anna
Swimming Advisory Remains in Effect for Upper North Anna Branch

RICHMOND, Va. – Upper and Middle section of North Anna Branch of Lake Anna in Louisa County is experiencing a harmful algae bloom (HAB). The public is advised to avoid contact with this specific area of the lake until algae concentrations return to acceptable levels.

Some harmful algae, called cyanobacteria, can cause skin rash and gastrointestinal illnesses, such as upset stomach, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. The area to avoid can be seen on an interactive Harmful Algal Bloom map. A status report containing the updated advisory areas may be viewed at Lake Anna HAB Status Report 8.18.2023.

The section of the lake currently under a swimming advisory due to unsafe levels of cyanobacteria:

  • Upper North Anna Branch (advisory issued 8/4/23) – From the upper inundated waters of the North Anna arm of the lake downstream to the Route 522 Bridge.
  • Middle North Anna Branch (issued 8/18/23) – From the Route 522 Bridge, to include Route 719 (Holladay Bridge), to Lumsden Flats at Rose Valley Drive

The area to avoid can be seen on an interactive Harmful Algal Bloom map. A status report containing the updated advisory areas may be viewed at Lake Anna HAB Status Report 8.18.2023.  To lift advisories, there must be two acceptable samples collected at least 10 days apart. The next sampling date is planned for the week of September 19 (weather permitting).

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and the Virginia Harmful Algal Bloom Task Force, which includes the VDH, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, and the Old Dominion University Phytoplankton Laboratory, will continue to monitor water quality in the lake. In general, advisories will be lifted following two consecutive test results with acceptable levels for algal cell counts and/or toxin concentration.

For more information visit www.SwimHealthyVA.com.

# # #

Lake Anna Harmful Algae Bloom Advisories Lifted – 2022 Harmful Algal Response Season Complete

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — November 10, 2022
Media Contact: Brookie Crawford, brookie.crawford@vdh.virginia.gov

Lake Anna Harmful Algae Bloom Advisories Lifted – 2022 Harmful Algal Response Season Complete

RICHMOND, VA – The North Anna and Pamunkey branches, including Terry’s Run, of Lake Anna in Orange, Louisa and Spotsylvania have experienced a harmful algae bloom (HAB) since July. Results of samples collected October 18 indicated potentially toxic cyanobacteria at acceptable levels at all but the upper North Anna Branch.  A status report containing the updated information may be viewed at Lake Anna Status Report.

While all other sample sites contained significantly lower concentrations, October 18 samples from the Upper North Anna Branch still indicated unsafe levels of cyanobacteria (>100,000 cells/ml).  The public is recommended to be aware of and to avoid discolored water or scums from the upper inundated areas of the North Anna to the Rt. 522 Bridge.

Algae blooms can occur when warm water and nutrients combine to make conditions favorable for algae growth. Most algae species are harmless, however, some species may produce irritating compounds or toxins.

The public should avoid discolored water or scums that are green or bluish-green because they are more likely to contain toxins..

To prevent illness from potentially toxic algae blooms:

  • Avoid contact with any area of the lake where water is green or an advisory sign is posted.
  • Do not allow children or pets to drink from natural bodies of water.
  • Keep children and pets out of the areas experiencing a harmful algae bloom and quickly wash them off with plenty of fresh, clean water after coming into contact with algae scum or bloom water.
  • Seek medical/veterinarian care if you or your animals experience symptoms after swimming in or near an algal bloom.
  • Properly clean fish by removing skin and discarding all internal organs, and cooking fish to the proper temperature to ensure fish filets are safe to eat.
  • Contact the Virginia Harmful Algal Bloom Hotline at 1-888-238-6154 if you suspect you experienced health-related effects following exposure to a bloom.

WHEN IN DOUBT, STAY OUT!

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) and the Virginia Harmful Algal Bloom Task Force, which includes the VDH, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, and the Old Dominion University Phytoplankton Laboratory, suspend response sampling at the end of October each year, when the recreational (swimming) season concludes and as temperatures begin cooling in natural waters. This change enables conservation of response resources for peak swimming use. Algae blooms which are still present in October/November in areas of a waterbody may persist into late fall and possibly winter months. While cyanobacteria concentrations fluctuate during seasonal transitions, resources are not available to continue the response efforts in off-season months. Response efforts will resume in May 2023, weather permitting.

For more information visit www.SwimHealthyVA.com.

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