Arizona Environment Officials Warn of Potentially Toxic Algae Bloom at Bartlett Lake

Arizona officials are warning of a possibly harmful algae bloom at Bartlett Reservoir Lake in Tonto National Forest.

Not all algae is toxic, but the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality is informing the public that those looking to take part in recreation at the lake to check the water and shores for green growth, surface scum, discoloration, streaks or excess foam that can possibly be dangerous for people, especially children and also pets.

The algae look like green dots floating just beneath the surface and has the resemblance to spilled green paint or pea soup.

The Arizona Game and Fish Department has said that algae is unlikely to impact fish in the lake, and ADEQ are stating that boating and fishing are still acceptable, however, some algae blooms can make people and pets sick.

It is recommended that visitors:

• Stay away from algae and scum in the water
• Keep children and pets away from algae in the water or on the shore
• DO NOT DRINK or use this water for cooking
• When in doubt, stay out

It’s uncertain how long the bloom will affect the lake, but previous blooms have typically lasted for 1-2 weeks.

Visitors can contact the U.S. Forest Service Cave Creek Ranger District for up-to-date info on lake conditions, and the Tonto National Forest will continue to provide updates. For more info about harmful algae: azdeq.gov/AZHAB.