Tempe Town Lake Temporarily Closed To Paddleboarding

TEMPE, AZ — For around the next two weeks paddleboarders will not be allowed on Tempe Town Lake because of a seasonal algae bloom.

The lake will also be closed during that time to any other activities with a high likelihood of contact with the water, the city said in a news release.

Kayaking, outrigger canoeing, rowing, sailing, dragon boating and pedal boating will still be allowed, along with catch and release fishing. Tempe said that the closure to paddleboarding is out of an abundance of caution, but still advised those who spend time on the lake in the next two weeks to avoid sustained contact with the water. People are also advised to keep their pets out of the water.

The lake water is currently being tested to ensure that it's safe for paddle boarding, but the testing takes time. The city promises to reopen that lake to paddle boarders as soon as tests reveal that it is safe.

Blue green algae blooms are common, especially when there are significant weather changes. The lake has experienced these blooms in the past, the city said. Blue green algae can produce toxins that are harmful to humans and pets, according to the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality.