PORTAGE, Mich. (WOOD) — A public health advisory for a suspected harmful algal bloom in Portage’s Austin Lake has been lifted, the health department said.
On Monday, results of a sampling came back negative for a variety of cyanobacteria that can produce toxins called microcystin, according to the Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department.
Microcystin was first discovered nearly two weeks ago in Austin Lake, prompting the health department to warn people not to contact or swallow the water.
Harmful algal bloom in Portage’s Austin Lake, health department warns
Although the samples came back negative, the health department still warns people to be aware of algae on the water even if you can’t see it. People and pets should not contact water that looks blue-green, has a green sheen or paint-spilled look to it. HABs most often happen during the summer months and into the fall, lasting several days or months…