A blue-green algae bloom, which may lead to increased toxins, often looks like a bright green paint spill. Report a bloom sighting to the Lilly Center by calling (574) 372-5281 or by emailing [email protected]. Photo provided by Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams.

News Release

WINONA LAKE — From June to August, the Lilly Center for Lakes & Streams will publish weekly lake toxin notifications to notify the public about dangerous levels of blue-green algae toxins. Sign up for toxin notifications at lakes.grace.edu/microcystin.

Blue-green algae are a photosynthesizing, increasingly prevalent, potentially toxin-producing family of bacteria natural to freshwater. The “potentially” part works in two ways: not every species of blue-green produces toxins, and the toxin-producing species do not always produce toxin.

The Lilly Center’s research team collects water samples from the lake during the week; the toxin team conducts a test to analyze whether the water sample contains the toxin microcystin. Those registered for notifications can expect an email notification on Friday morning with a link to the full results.

According to the Indiana Department of Environmental Management, the safety threshold for microcystin toxin is 0.8 parts per billion. The safety threshold for human health concerns is 8.0 ppb. Although less than 4% of samples in 2023 resulted in microcystin concentrations above the pet safety threshold, the Lilly Center will stay proactive in monitoring this threat. By zooming in on Kosciusko County’s major 14 lakes, the Lilly Center is laser-focused on empowering lake lovers with the information they need to stay safe in the water.

Sign up for summer microcystin notifications by visiting lakes.grace.edu/microcystin. It is a simple way to stay informed and safe as you play on the water!

Blue-green algae research and toxin notifications are possible thanks to support from the K21 Health Foundation, Kosciusko County Convention, Recreation & Visitor Commission, and many other individual supporters.