Update on blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) found in Lake Wylie on October 22, 2021

Mecklenburg County, North Carolina – In their last assessment of Lake Wylie on October 21, 2021, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services observed active blooms of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) in Boyd’s Cove and Snug Harbor. A bloom was also observed in a third unnamed cove in the area where the Catawba Yacht Club is located, as shown on the attached map. The following safety measures are recommended for these three (3) handles:

• People and pets do not come into contact with water or algae.
• Do not handle a cook or eat dead fish that may be present. Avoid fishing in the flowering area.
• If you come into contact with an algae bloom, wash yourself thoroughly.
• Use clean water to rinse animals that may have come in contact with an algae bloom.
• If you or your child seems ill after being in water with an algal bloom, get medical attention immediately. Symptoms include loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, cough, difficulty breathing, sore throat, itchy skin, or rash.
• If your pet appears to stumble, stagger, or collapse after being in a pond, lake, or river, see a veterinarian immediately.

It is recommended that all lake users check for visual signs that an overgrowth is occurring before coming into contact with water. Visual signs of an overgrowth may include bright green, blue, discolored, and / or frothy water. If visual signs are observed, follow the above safety measures.

More information is available at the following link:
https://charlottenc.gov/StormWater/SurfaceWaterQuality/Pages/QualityofStreamsandLakes.aspx#AB.

To receive future notifications of bathing advisories regarding water quality conditions, subscribe to the new alert subscription option entitled “No bathing advisories” at the address
www.charmeckalerts.org or email MECKNOSWIM at 888-777.

Media Contact: Rusty Rozzelle, at 980-314-3217 or Rusty.Rozzelle@MeckNC.gov