Los Alamos Reporter

Environment Department Warns Public Of Algae Bloom In Eagle Nest Lake

Aphanizomenon Grass clippings Eagle Nest Lake. Photo Courtesy NMED

NMED NEWS RELEASE

Visitors to Eagle Nest Lake near Angel Fire are being urged to use caution as a potentially harmful algae bloom forms. 

Samples collected by the New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) show harmful algae are present. NMED and the Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department are urging visitors to the lake to take the following precautions: 

  • As always, do not drink untreated surface water. 
  • Avoid swimming in algae blooms and keep pets out of the water. 
  • Supervise children and pets, as they are more likely to ingest water. 
  • If you suspect an algae-related illness, call the New Mexico Poison Information Center at (800) 222-1222. For illness in animals, call (888) 426-4435.  

Harmful algae blooms, or HABs, occur when certain algae overgrow in water, posing potential health risk to people and animals. They can appear blue, bright green, brown, or red and resemble scum on the water’s surface.  The algae responsible for this bloom, Aphanizomenon, tends to look like grass clippings floating in the water (Seen in the attached photo). 

While HABs can be dangerous due to the toxins that may be produced by certain algae, it is helpful to view them the same as encountering a rattlesnake on a hiking trail. While precautions should be taken to avoid them, it is rarely necessary to close an entire area due to their presence. 

NMED and State Parks are actively monitoring conditions and regularly post signs at the park to keep visitors informed.  More information about HABs can be found on NMED’s HABs Webpage.