The National Park Service has found toxic algae in a section of Blue Mesa Reservoir, near Gunnison, and is asking people to exercise caution when using the reservoir.
The park service said it has sampled, analyzed and determined the presence of cyanotoxins in the Iola Basin section of the Blue Mesa. Other areas of the reservoir may contain toxins as well, according to a news release.
The park service said people should avoid shallow water in the affected basin, and watch for algal mats throughout the reservoir.
Blue Mesa is still completely open to boating and fishing, but the park service said anglers should clean fish in treated water, and all boats and fishing gear be cleaned after using the reservoir. Dogs and other animals shouldn’t swim or drink any reservoir water until further notice, the park service said.
People or animals exposed to the Blue Mesa water and exhibit nausea, vomiting, digestive distress, breathing problems, seizure or unexplained illness should contact a medical professional, the park service said. Testing is ongoing at the reservoir.
