The annual blue-green algal bloom has started at Matt Warner Reservoir. According to DWR Conservation Outreach Manager Tonya Kieffer-Selby, the Department of Environmental Quality is visiting Matt Warner today to assess the situation. The Utah Department of Environmental Quality answers frequently asked questions on their website. Blue-green algae, known as Cyanobacteria, are tiny, plant-like organisms that use sunlight to grow. During algal blooms, the bacteria produces toxins that can pose a health risk to humans and animals. The most common effect from exposure is a stomach illness and skin irritation. Stomach effects usually begin within 3 to 5 hours and last 1 to 2 days. Children experience more serious symptoms than adults. The best way to protect yourself is to stay out of the water. If you choose to eat fish caught in affected waters, remove the fat, skin, and organs before eating and wash well with fresh water. Additional information about algal blooms is available at
habs.utah.gov
.
