Algae warning at Cheney downgraded to watch

Blue-green algae warnings for Cheney and Marion reservoirs have been downgraded to a watches, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment advised Thursday evening.

They were among half dozen lakes around the state that experienced an advisory change, while three others had advisories lifted. Only one lake was added to the list.

Cheney had been under a warning since the July 4th weekend.

A watch means that toxic blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.

Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms. Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.

Also, clean fish well with potable water and eat fillet portion only.

Areas lakes under advisories include Ford State Fishing La in Ford County, Marion County Lake, and Marion Reservoir.