Visitors to Eagle Nest Lake in Colfax County are being advised to exercise caution due to a potentially harmful algae bloom. The New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) has detected harmful algae in the lake through collected samples. Alongside the Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department, NMED is recommending several precautions for visitors.
These precautions include avoiding drinking untreated surface water, steering clear of swimming in areas with visible algae blooms, and keeping pets out of the water. It is also advised to supervise children and pets closely as they are more prone to ingesting water. In case of suspected algae-related illness, individuals should contact the New Mexico Poison Information Center at (800) 222-1222. For animal-related illnesses, the contact number is (888) 426-4435.
Harmful algae blooms (HABs) occur when certain types of algae grow excessively in water bodies, posing health risks to humans and animals. These blooms can appear in various colors such as blue, bright green, brown, or red and often resemble scum on the water's surface. The specific type of algae identified in this bloom is Aphanizomenon, which typically looks like grass clippings floating on the water.
Although HABs can produce toxins that are dangerous, NMED compares them to encountering a rattlesnake on a hiking trail; precautions should be taken but closing an entire area is rarely necessary. Both NMED and State Parks are actively monitoring conditions at Eagle Nest Lake and regularly updating visitors with posted signs.
For more information about HABs, individuals can visit NMED’s HABs Webpage. Additionally, it was recently confirmed by the New Mexico Environment Department that Las Vegas drinking water remains safe despite concerns over post-fire runoff from recent fires affecting the city's water supply.
Information from this article can be found here.
