HomeMy WebLinkAboutMirrorLakeBlueGreenReleaseContact: Kaylin Eidsness, Senior Communications Coordinator
Phone 952-833-9537• keidsness@EdinaMN.gov • EdinaMN.gov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
High Algal Toxin Levels Detected in Mirror Lake
Edina, Minn., Sept. 3, 2019 – The Nine Mile Creek Watershed District has detected high Microcystin toxin levels in Mirror Lake and residents are urged to avoid contact with the water
due to public health concerns.
High blue-green algae levels were measured in recent samples by the Nine Mile Creek Watershed District. High Microcystin levels are typical with excess growth of blue-green algae. Follow-up
toxicity monitoring was done to evaluate public health risk. The latest data indicates Microcystin levels are at a level that presents a public health risk.
Exposure to Microcystins may harm the liver and be harmful to kidneys and, in extreme cases, death. Symptoms of poisoning include jaundice, shock, abdominal pain/distention, weakness,
nausea and vomiting, severe thirst and rapid or weak pulse. If you begin to notice symptoms in you or another person, contact your health care provider; in animals, contact your vet.
People and pets should not come into contact with the water until they are notified that it is safe.
Blue-green algae are a type of cyanobacteria present at low levels in many Minnesota lakes and ponds. When water is stagnant, warm and rich in nutrients – especially phosphorus – cyanobacteria
can grow quickly, forming “blooms.” These blooms typically look like pea soup or bright green paint. They can produce a strong, swampy odor as the cyanobacteria breaks down.
Nine Mile Creek Watershed District will collect another sample later this month to monitor changes.
For more information, contact the Nine Mile Creek Watershed District at 952-358-2276, City of Edina Water Resources Coordinator Jessica Wilson at 952-826-0445 or visit www.ninemilecreek.org/mirror-la
ke-recreational-water-advisory.
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