Lake Hartwell Blue-Green Algae Bloom: Continued Monitoring and Advisory
The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) is still monitoring the blue-green algae bloom in Lake Hartwell. SCDES teams collected more water samples on May 6th from different locations around the lake. They found that the potentially harmful blue-green algae is still present, especially in shallow areas near the shore. One type of concern remains at a low level. Another type was found in all the samples, but it is not at a level considered unsafe for swimming at this time.
SCDES’s Aquatic Science Division teams collected additional water samples at Lake Hartwell and observed the harmful algal bloom (HAB) in several locations, most noticeable in coves and along the shore. HABS can be a common occurrence in natural waterbodies this time of year.
Therefore, SCDES is continuing to advise the public to be careful. People should avoid direct contact with water where blue-green algae is visible. Pet owners should also keep their animals away from these areas of the lake. These types of blooms can happen in warm weather and may cause mild illness.
SCDES will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates to local authorities and the public. The agency is also working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. These blooms usually decrease when the weather becomes cooler or there is more rain.