Dangerous blue-green algae advisory for both Lake Nokomis beaches

The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) sent out a warning for both the Lake Nokomis Main Beach and Lake Nokomis 50th Street Beach after discovering blue-green algae toxins in the water.

Regular testing from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) found elevated levels at the main beach. The levels were lower at the 50th Street Beach but officials say lake conditions can change quickly due to weather and wind direction, so both beaches are under an advisory.

Officials say the blooms often appear as “pea soup or bright green paint” and emit a “strong, swampy odor as they break down.”

Health experts say blue-green algae blooms are particularly dangerous for dogs because they’re more likely to consume the contaminated water while swimming.

You can learn more about blue-green algae on the MPCA website.

RELATED: Blue-green algae risk expected to rise as weather heats up, Lake Nokomis beaches under algae advisory, Riley Lake Beach in Eden Prairie closed due to blue-green algae bloom
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