North Dakota Officials Warn About Blue Green Algae at Blacktail Dam

If Blacktail Dam is part of your weekend plans, you may want to take a closer look at the water before jumping in.

The North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality has issued a Harmful Algal Bloom advisory for Blacktail Dam. The advisory means a blue green algae bloom is present in portions of the waterbody and could potentially be harmful to people and pets.

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What to Watch For

Blue green algae can sometimes make the water look like spilled green paint or pea soup. If you see water conditions like that, health officials recommend staying out of the water.

People should avoid swimming, waterskiing or tubing in areas where a bloom is visible. It is also important to avoid swallowing the water and to keep a close eye on young children and pets around the shoreline.

Read More: What To Keep In Your Glove Box For North Dakota Driving

Blacktail Dam

Blacktail Dam

If you do spend time on the water, the DEQ recommends staying away from areas where scum is present, particularly while boating. After swimming or coming into contact with the water, rinse off with clean water.

Keep Pets Away From the Water

Pets can be especially vulnerable because they may drink from the water or lick algae from their fur after swimming. Keeping dogs away from visible algae and scum is an important part of reducing the risk.

The advisory is a reminder that even when summer temperatures make a day at the lake tempting in North Dakota, it is worth taking a few seconds to check the water first.

For additional information about harmful algal blooms and current advisories, visit the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality's harmful algal bloom information page.