Goose Creek, South Carolina. The Charleston Water System (CWS) and the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) have advised the public to avoid recreational activities at Goose Creek Reservoir due to an algal bloom.
According to CSW, drinking water is safe because the reservoir is not currently used for public consumption.
SCDES is performing studies to see if dangerous pollutants are present in the reservoir. Results are expected shortly.
Meanwhile, CWS and SCDES urge people and dogs to remain out of the water and take care to prevent coming into touch with potentially dangerous algae.
According to CWS, aim to avoid:
Swimming, kayaking, or wading in water.
Breathing in tiny water droplets or mist containing algal poisons.
Drinking raw reservoir water contaminated by an algae bloom.
Pets lick their fur after swimming.
Eating fish or shellfish from the impacted areas.
Curious about what a dangerous algal bloom is? The organisms in question are little, plant-like beings. Some species can create poisons that cause illness in both humans and animals. SCDES defines a toxic algal bloom as one that includes these harmful organisms, such as some forms of algae and cyanobacteria.
To recognize a toxic algal bloom, look for foam, scum, or thick layers of algae on the water’s surface, as well as brilliant green spilled paint or blue-green water discolouration, according to SCDES.
Harmful algal blooms occur naturally, but human activities, such as fertilizer runoff, can exacerbate their severity. According to the CWS, people and businesses should use fertilizers appropriately and minimize soil erosion into neighboring ditches and creeks to reduce the likelihood of future blooms.
