Blue-green algae warning for Indiana beaches: What you need to know

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Indianapolis, IN – Indiana State Parks issued a blue-green algae warning for several lakes and reservoirs on Thursday, August 16. The warning, which affects popular beaches across the state, outlines different risk levels and offers advice to swimmers, boaters and pet owners on how to stay safe.

A low risk warning is currently in effect at Dean Lake SRA, Monroe Lake and Summit Lake SRA beaches. While swimming is permitted, visitors are asked not to drink the water and to shower immediately after swimming. Pet owners should also bathe their animals and prevent them from ingesting lake water.

A more serious warning level applies to several other lakes, including Brookville Lake, Salamonie Lake and Mississinewa Lake. Swimming and boating are permitted at these locations, but direct contact with algae should be avoided. Pets are advised to avoid these waters or at least rinse thoroughly after possible contact.

According to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR), no beaches are currently under a caution or beach closure warning, but they stress that people should check local signs and notices before visiting a state park. Residents and visitors can find more information and updates at algae.IN.gov.