The Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment (DWEE) has issued a health alert for harmful algal blooms, or toxic blue-green algae, at Bluestem Lake in Lancaster County.
Recent water samples showed microcystin levels above the state’s health threshold of 8 parts per billion. Swimming beaches at the lake are now closed until further notice. Boating and fishing are still allowed, but officials urge caution and advise against swallowing water or allowing pets in the lake.
The state continues weekly water testing at 56 public lakes through September. Updated results are posted every Friday on DWEE’s website, along with an interactive Beach Watch map showing current conditions…