Toxic algae detected in Cherry Creek Reservoir

BY TAYLER SHAW TSHAW@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

After discovering toxic algae in the Cherry Creek Reservoir, o cials are not permitting some recreational activities like swimming and paddleboarding in parts of the reservoir.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife, which announced the recreational closure in a July 30 news release, advises that people and their pets avoid contact with the water at the reservoir because a toxic, bluegreen algae bloom was found on the shoreline.

Toxic algae can a ect the liver, skin, or neurological systems of people and pets, according to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife said swimming, paddleboarding and wading will not be allowed near the marina and the “west shades” area of the reservoir. ere are warning signs at the recreational closure areas.

“All skin-to-water contact should be avoided for humans and pets,”

Cherry Creek Operations Manager Larry Butter eld said in the release. “Contact with the water could cause minor skin rashes and make pets ill. Dogs need to be on-leash to keep them from drinking or playing in the (algae) bloom.”

Symptoms of toxic algae exposure for people may include skin irritation, nausea, diarrhea, fever, headache, liver damage, allergic reactions and asthma are-ups, according to the state health department.