The New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) has lifted the harmful algae bloom advisory for Santa Cruz Lake in Santa Fe County and Clayton Lake in Union County. This decision follows updated monitoring data indicating improved conditions at these locations. Harmful algae blooms, which can appear blue, bright green, brown, or red, pose potential health risks to humans and animals due to the toxins they may produce.
Despite lifting the advisory, NMED advises visitors not to drink untreated surface water and to monitor pets and children closely. Fish should be rinsed with clean water before cooking thoroughly. The department continues to monitor algae conditions at select lakes and reservoirs from July through November when such blooms are most likely.
The public is advised to avoid water that smells foul or appears scummy. If an algae-related illness is suspected, individuals should contact the New Mexico Poison Information Center at (800) 222-1222. For animal illnesses, the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 is available.
More information about harmful algae blooms can be found on NMED’s HABs Webpage and related resources from the New Mexico Department of Health and Oregon Department of Environmental Quality. Meanwhile, the NMED has confirmed that Las Vegas drinking water remains safe despite concerns over post-fire runoff effects from recent fires in the area (source).
