The Florida Department of Health in Marion County has issued a public health caution over the presence of blue-green algae observed at the Lake Bryant Resort Dock.
According to the advisory issued on June 11, state environmental officials are currently conducting water sample testing at the site. While the presence of harmful toxins has not yet been confirmed, health officials stress that environmental conditions can shift rapidly, and the public should exercise caution immediately.
Blue-green algae are a common type of bacteria found in Florida’s freshwater environments. A bloom occurs when rapid algal growth leads to a massive accumulation of cells, which can discolor the water and produce floating mats with odors. These blooms frequently appear as scum, foam, or a paint-like slick on the water’s surface in various colors.
While blooms are more prevalent in the summer and fall due to sunny days, warm water temperatures, and still water conditions, they can appear year-round. Blue-green algae may not always be visible as a bloom, but it can still be present in the water.
Health officials advise residents and visitors to take specific precautions to avoid illness. People should not drink, swim, wade, or use personal watercraft in waters where a visible bloom is present. Anyone who comes into contact with the algae, or water that is discolored or smells unpleasant, should wash their skin and clothing thoroughly with soap and water.
Pets and livestock must be kept away from the area entirely, as algae blooms are not safe for animals, and owners should provide an alternative source of clean water.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection and its partners are continuing to collect algae samples from reported bloom locations. Once the analysis is complete, toxin laboratory results can be viewed online through the Protecting Florida Together website or on the department’s Algal Bloom Dashboard.
The state has established several reporting channels for residents who notice environmental or health changes. New blooms can be reported to the environmental protection department online or by calling toll-free at 855-305-3903.
Individuals experiencing symptoms from exposure should contact the Florida Poison Information Center at 800-222-1222.
For sick pets, owners should contact a veterinarian, while dead or abnormally behaving fish should be reported to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 800-636-0511.
And finally, residents with general health questions can reach the local health department directly at 352-622-7744.