NMED News:

SANTA FE — The New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) is lifting a harmful algae bloom advisory that was issued in late September for Santa Cruz Lake in Santa Fe County and Clayton Lake in Union County following updated monitoring data showing improved conditions.

Harmful algae blooms (HABs) occur when certain algae rapidly grow in surface waters, creating potential health risks for people and animals. These blooms can appear blue, bright green, brown, or red and may look like scum or floating grass clippings. Some HABs can produce toxins that are dangerous to both humans and animals.

NMED still recommends visitors do not drink untreated surface water, monitor pets and children, and rinse fish with clean water prior to cooking thoroughly.

NMED and its partners monitor algae conditions at select lakes and reservoirs from July through November, when harmful algae blooms are most likely to occur. The department advises the public to avoid water that smells foul or appears scummy — resembling floating grass clippings, thick paint, or shades of pea-green, blue-green, or brownish red. When in doubt, the public is urged to stay out of the water.

If you suspect an algae-related illness, call the New Mexico Poison Information Center at 800.222.1222. For illness in animals, call 888.442.4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855.764.7661.

More information about HABs can be found on NMED’s HABs Webpage, in New Mexico Department of Health HABs Human Health and Animal Health factsheets, and Oregon Department of Environmental Quality’s Fishing During HABs website.