Crews find toxins from harmful algae in Mantua Reservoir, issue warning

MANTUA, Utah (ABC4) — Mantua Reservoir is the next victim in the spread of algae in Utah’s lakes.

In late June, the Bear River Health Department issued a health warning indicating that a harmful algal bloom was present in Mantua Reservoir.

“Certainly, don’t drink the water,” said Ben Harker, an environmental health scientist with the Bear River Health Department.

Health officials are asking recreators to avoid swimming, drinking, or water skiing in the following areas of the reservoir:

• Northeast boat ramp
• Main boat ramp
• Along the north shore

According to the health department, the presence of harmful algae in the water may be producing dangerous toxins that can make humans and animals sick.

“The conditions have to be just right in order for these harmful algal blooms to grow,” Harker said. He says nutrients, temperature, and conditions all play a role in allowing algae to bloom.

“It’s kind of a perfect mixture of all those things combined that present the opportunity for… harmful algal blooms to grow,” Harker told ABC4.com.

Health officials say boating is safe in the reservoir; however, they urge caution for those going out on the lake to avoid contact with the water.

“Any exposure to this water may cause illness,” the Bear River Health Department said in a warning advisory last week.

If a person or pet comes into contact with a harmful algal bloom, the Utah Department of Environmental Quality recommends rinsing off with clean, fresh water as soon as possible and contacting poison control.

People or animals who are exposed to toxins produced by harmful algae may experience skin, eye, nose, and throat or respiratory irritation. If ingested, individuals may experience stomach pain, headaches, vomiting, diarrhea, and kidney or liver damage.

Recreators are also warned to use caution if fishing in bodies of water with toxins caused by harmful algae.

Currently, only Pine View and Mantua Reservoirs, as well as parts of the Virgin River, have warning advisories due to harmful algal blooms.