The New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) has issued a warning to visitors of Quemado Lake, advising them to avoid contact with the water due to the presence of harmful algae and toxins. Harmful algae blooms (HABs) can pose health risks to both humans and animals. These blooms may appear in various colors such as blue, bright green, brown, or red and can resemble scum or floating grass clippings on the water's surface.
NMED has provided several precautions for visitors: refrain from drinking untreated surface water, swimming, wading, paddleboarding, or water skiing. Additionally, pets should be kept away from the lake and its shoreline areas. Boaters are advised to avoid areas with visible algae, and any fish caught should be rinsed with clean water before cooking thoroughly; only the fillet portion should be consumed. Children should be supervised to prevent them from entering the lake or playing near algae deposits.
In case of suspected algae-related illness in humans, individuals are encouraged to contact the New Mexico Poison Information Center at 800-222-1222. For animal-related illnesses, calls can be made to 888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661.
NMED continues monitoring conditions at Quemado Lake as resources permit. The department emphasizes that if the water emits a foul odor or appears scummy—similar to floating grass clippings—or is thick like paint with pea-green, blue-green, or brownish-red hues, it is advisable to stay out of the water.
Further information about HABs is available on NMED’s HABs Webpage and other resources such as the New Mexico Department of Health HABs Human Health and Animal Health factsheets. The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality also provides guidelines for fishing during HABs.
In related news concerning water safety in New Mexico, officials have confirmed that Las Vegas drinking water remains safe despite concerns over post-fire runoff from recent wildfires affecting the city's supply [source](https://www.krqe.com/news/new-mexico/officials-say-las-vegas-drinking-water-is-still-safe/).
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