Dangerous Toxic Algae Bloom Found in South Arkansas Lake

The Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission are warming anyone fishing in Bois D-arc Lake in Hempstead County in South Arkansas about a potentially dangerous Algae Bloom.

The harmful Algae Bloom was spotted last week in the lake, according to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. The AGFC is still awaiting the results of testing to confirm if the water is safe, the Algal Bloom occurs when the algae grow too fast in freshwater thus causing the algae to become toxic. The algae is recognizable by its blue-green or dark-green tint with a foamy-type texture.

If a human or animal comes in contact with it it could lead to some adverse effects such as rash, stomach problems, throat irritation and even breathing difficulty. Any fish caught at the lake should be washed thoroughly and cooked well, and don't touch your eyes or face if you think you may have come in contact with it.

According to KATV, the outbreak seems to be confined to the South side of Bois D'Arc Lake this year. Officials are hoping that with all the recent rains lately the algae will test negative in the coming weeks. Testing will continue until the water is free of the threat. Signs have been posted at the lake warning the public.