Lincoln, Neb. – State environmental officials announced Monday that a health alert is now in effect for toxic blue‑green algae at Big Indian Lake in Gage County and that the existing alert for Cub Creek Lake in Jefferson County has been extended. The alerts come after water samples collected earlier this week recorded microcystin concentrations above the state safety threshold of 8 parts per billion.
What the alerts mean for lake visitors
When a health alert is issued, designated swimming beaches at the affected lakes are closed and warning signs are posted. Recreational boating and fishing remain permitted, but officials urge the public to avoid any contact with the water, especially activities that could lead to swallowing water. Pets are also advised not to enter or drink from the lakes.
Rockford Lake removed from alert list
In contrast, Rockford Lake, also in Gage County, was removed from the health alert list after being placed on alert last week. The removal reflects recent testing that showed microcystin levels fell below the 8‑ppb threshold.
Ongoing monitoring and public resources
The department’s weekly monitoring program has been testing 57 public lake sites across Nebraska since May 18, 2026, and will continue through Sept. 14, 2026. Samples are collected early each week at lakes with swimming beaches and high visitor traffic. Results for microcystin and bacteria are posted every Friday on the DWEE home page, and an interactive Beach Watch map is available on the agency’s website.
DWEE cautions that toxic blooms can develop between sample collection and reporting, so residents should remain vigilant for visible signs of algal growth. The agency also notes that harmful blooms may appear in other unsampled lakes throughout the state. Guidance on identifying blooms, potential health effects, and prevention steps is provided in the HAB Fact Sheet on the department’s site.
Partners in the testing effort
The state’s testing effort is a collaborative project involving the Central District Health Department, the Nebraska Public Power District, the United States Army Corps of Engineers, and seven Natural Resources Districts: Upper Republican, Lower Republican, South Platte, Middle Niobrara, Lower Loup, Nemaha, and Lower Elkhorn.
Officials encourage the public to enjoy the surrounding public areas, which remain open for camping, picnicking, and other outdoor activities, while adhering to the safety recommendations for water contact.
How to stay informed
Residents can review weekly water‑quality data and access the Beach Watch map via the Department of Water, Energy, and Environment’s website. For additional information on harmful algal blooms, visit the agency’s HAB Fact Sheet page.
Original reporting: KLKN-TV – News, Weather and Sports for Lincoln, Nebraska — read the source article.
