SARATOGA SPRINGS, Utah – Concerns about algal blooms are growing as lakes and reservoirs across the state, including Utah Lake, experience rapid growth of harmful algae.

The Utah Department of Environmental Quality has issued algal bloom warnings for Provo Bay, Lincoln Beach, American Fork Beach and Saratoga Springs Marina.

The harmful blooms are solely the result of summer weather, says Mike Pelz, vice president of BlueGreen Water Technologies, a company that works with the DEQ to develop natural prevention solutions.

“In the summer, there is significantly more sunlight. Combine that with the temperatures, and it's a perfect scenario for these bacteria, also called blue-green algae, to multiply very, very quickly, which we call a bloom,” Pelz said.

Authorities in Utah warn of drinking water contaminated by algal blooms

The authorities strongly warn against drinking the water. They advise cleaning the fish thoroughly before eating it and keeping pets away from the water.

The first sign you may notice is that the water just doesn't look right.

“This means any greenish or bluish-green sheen on the water,” Pelz said. “Anything that looks like green mud or just a discoloration.”

“In other words, if it doesn't look right, it probably isn't right.”

The current warning level poses health risks to swimmers and pets. However, fishing and boating on Utah Lake are still permitted.

Saratoga Springs authorities have warned residents that the algae in the water could produce dangerous toxins that are harmful to both humans and animals.

If you see a possible bloom, you are asked to report it to the DEQ.

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