Public health advisory issued for popular summer hangout spot in Kansas

TOPEKA (KSNT) – Kansas health officials are monitoring a “new and evolving health concern” at a popular local wildlife area.

Jill Bronaugh with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) said a public health advisory is in effect due to the discovery of dangerous blue-green algae mats at the Pillsbury Crossing Wildlife Area in Riley and Wabaunsee Counties. The KDHE and Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) are monitoring the situation.

The KDHE reports that harmful algal mats (HAMs) are blue-green algae that grow attached to the bottom of a body of water or other surfaces. The mats can become detached and float freely where they may wash up on nearby riverbanks or shores.

Bronaugh said HAMs can emit harmful toxins similar to harmful algal blooms (HABs) and may be mistaken for other vegetation. HAMs pose a public health hazard for those who come into contact with it.

“The health risk from HAMs is greatest when exposure occurs through ingestion and when contact or disturbance of algal mat material occurs (particularly for small children and dogs). KDHE HAB Response Program will notify public waterbody managers if HAMs are detected at the waterbody while responding to algae bloom complaints and recommend that signage be posted.”
KDHE press release excerpt

People who see a sign posted for HAMs should avoid recreational activity in the water. The KDHE encourages people and pets to avoid eating, touching or transporting any of the HAMs from the Pillsbury Crossing Wildlife Area.

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