Algae In Lake Needwood But I Was In It!

My husband and I after the race!

Lake Needwood is suffering from an algal bloom of Microcystin which is a toxic substance produced by blue-green algae (cyanobacteria). Montgomery Parks tells us “The water can cause minor skin irritation and gastrointestinal discomfort in humans and has been reported to result in health problems to animals that drink infected water.”

Notices have been posted to avoid all contact with the lake water. Dogs or other pets should not be allowed to drink the water or swim in the lake. The boat rentals are still operating, but don’t get wet.

A Post Now piece quotes Doug Redmond, an aquatic biologist in the Park Planning and Stewardship Division, as saying “The first time we were aware of the problem was last summer.”

Last summer? The article explains that an expert on algae noticed it in the lake, took samples, and contacted the authorities. Apparently the Montgomery Parks Department doesn’t take regular samples.

Participants cleaning off in Lake Needwood.

Back on May 1st, I spent a fair amount of time in Lake Needwood participating in the RunAMuck 5K. We were wet and covered in mud from racing through the lake. The annual Washington DC RunAMuck includes hills, walls, obstacles and a few dashes through the lake and mud pits! What a blast! We didn’t see any algae nor did I hear reports of any sickness.

I certainly hope the bloom doesn’t prevent next year’s RunAMuck. Many energetic and slightly crazy people would be very disappointed.

Share and enjoy:

Hide Sites