ST. CHARLES COUNTY — Recent rains are expected to help alleviate toxic algae blooms in lakes at two local parks.
Officials found cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, at Quail Ridge Park near Wentzville and at the dog park pond at Broemmelsiek Park near Lake Saint Louis. As a result, the dog park had to be closed to protect both humans and dogs from the toxins produced by the algae.
Scott Robinett, a state environmental manager, advised, “We recommend that people, pets, and livestock avoid contact with any water body suspected of having a cyanobacteria bloom for at least two weeks after all visual signs of the bloom have dissipated.”
The toxins released by cyanobacteria can be harmful to pets and cause illness in humans. These blooms tend to peak in the summer across the Midwest and are increasing in frequency worldwide due to rising temperatures. There have been reports of dogs falling ill at Broemmelsiek Park in past years.
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Cyanobacteria play a vital role in ecosystems by converting nitrogen from the air or water into an organic molecule that can be used by plants, fungi, and animals.
Ryan Graham, director of parks for St. Charles County, explained, “It’s a natural phenomenon that occurs in any natural body of water and has been around for centuries.”
While cyanobacteria are not always harmful, they can be dangerous if they produce toxins, become too dense, deplete oxygen in the water, or release harmful gases.
Missouri has confirmed four blooms this month, two in St. Charles County, and two in the Kansas City area, according to Robinett.
Graham identified the bloom at Broemmelsiek Park as Microcystis, triggered by extreme temperatures. Microcystis is the most common bloom-forming cyanobacteria globally and produces toxins known as “microcystins” that can be harmful to mammals.
Symptoms of cyanobacteria exposure in humans may include headaches, rash, stomach pain, and nausea, while pets may exhibit signs such as sleepiness, lack of appetite, or foaming at the mouth.
Sara Evers, acting director of public health for St. Charles County, cautioned, “Keep pets out of natural bodies of water during high temperatures as they may ingest the algae and worsen their condition by trying to lick it off their coats.”
The St. Charles County Parks Department conducts monthly monitoring of cyanobacteria levels in natural bodies of water. Sites with high cyanobacteria populations are tested for toxin production and closed to the public if deemed dangerous. Treatment options for water with high cyanobacteria levels include adding non-toxic dye to block sunlight and lower water temperatures, as per Graham.
Evers highlighted the role of rain as a natural solution that cools down waterways and keeps water circulating.
The incoming storms are expected to aid in disrupting the algae bloom cycle. Graham stated, “Rain is a significant factor in breaking down algae blooms and disrupting their cycle, which is much needed in this situation.”
Although the rain may help dissipate the bloom, toxins from cyanobacteria can linger for weeks afterwards. Officials will continue testing park water to ensure it is safe for humans and pets before reopening.
