Community Corner
Water Advisory: Piney Run Lake Algae Could Produce Harmful Toxins
The advisory remains in effect for portions of the lake, although boat rentals have been re-opened.
A Water Advisory was issued at Piney Run Park recently, warning citizens that contact with the water in the man-made lake could lead to illness.
According to an advisory posted on the Carroll County Department of Recreation and Parks webpage, Piney Run Lake is experiencing an algae bloom that could produce toxins. The advisory recommends the following safety precautions:
- Do not allow pets to swim in or drink the water
- Do not allow children to play or wade from the shoreline or to enter water off boats
- Do not eat organs of fish caught and wash catch thoroughly
- If contact is made with the problem water, wash off with soap and water immediately
"We can generally see the increase in growth and when it gets to that point then we start to work with our water resource department and we test the water," Degitz said.
This is all a natural process, Degitz said, and although it has happened before at this lake, it's not a frequent occurrence.
How long will the algae bloom impact the water? According to Degitz, that's up to mother nature.
"There is no standard answer. We are dealing with mother nature, she causes it and cures it to large degree -- it depends on rainfall, cooler temps -- sometimes it resolves itself very quickly, sometimes it takes longer," Degitz said.
The water advisory remains in effect for some portions of the lake, although the area around the docks and boat rentals has been re-opened.
"We have re-opened boat rentals," Degitz said. "The area of concern has shifted and become more localized so the area near the boat ramps and docks is clear now."
Advisories have been posted around the lake and information is available at the boat rental facility to let people know what parts of the lake are safe.
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