Algal Bloom Alert: Residents Warned to Avoid Gun Lake
July 9, 2026
The Barry-Eaton District Health Department (BEDHD) has issued a cautionary notice following the detection of a harmful algal bloom (HAB) at Gun Lake. Visitors and residents are urged to exercise vigilance when around the lake.
Harmful algal blooms occur when blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, proliferate rapidly in stagnant water bodies like lakes and ponds. Some of these blooms can emit toxins that are dangerous to both humans and animals. It’s impossible to determine the harmful nature of a bloom merely by sight, making it prudent to avoid contact with water that shows visible algae.
To ensure safety, refrain from swimming, wading, water skiing, or engaging in any activity in water that appears discolored or contains floating algae. These blooms can give the water a bright green, blue-green, brown, or red appearance, and may resemble spilled green paint, pea soup, or thick algae mats.
Pets are particularly vulnerable as they may ingest lake water or lick algae off their fur. To protect them, keep pets away from affected waters and ensure they do not drink the lake water. If a pet does come into contact with the water, rinse them immediately with clean water and consult a veterinarian if they show signs of illness.
Recognizing Symptoms of Exposure
Exposure to harmful algae can occur through skin contact, ingestion, or inhalation of water spray during activities like swimming or boating. Potential symptoms include:
- Skin rash or irritation
- Irritated nose or throat
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Coughing or difficulty breathing after inhaling water spray
Symptoms may manifest within hours or days following exposure.
What to Do If Exposed
Should you or your child come into contact with water suspected of harboring a harmful algal bloom:
- Rinse off immediately with clean, fresh water.
- Launder swimsuits and towels before reuse.
- Monitor for symptoms over the subsequent days.
If illness occurs, contact a healthcare provider. Immediate medical attention is necessary if breathing difficulties, severe vomiting, or other acute symptoms arise.
For pets exposed, rinse them thoroughly and prevent them from licking their fur until cleaned. Seek veterinary care promptly if symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, excessive drooling, shaking, or seizures occur.
Water Safety Precautions
Before entering the water with pets or for personal recreation:
- Avoid water that is bright green, blue-green, brown, or red.
- Steer clear of water that appears like spilled paint or pea soup, or has visible algae mats.
- Heed beach advisories or closures.
- Shower with clean water after swimming in natural water bodies.
- Never consume untreated lake water.
BEDHD, in collaboration with state partners, will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed until the algal bloom subsides. Conditions can rapidly change with weather and water alterations, so always inspect the water before swimming or allowing pets to enter. For the latest updates on beach advisories and water quality, visit the Michigan BeachGuard website.
To report a suspected harmful algal bloom, contact the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) by visiting Michigan.gov/HABs and selecting “Report it to EGLE.” Include photos if possible. Alternatively, call the Environmental Assistance Center at 800-662-9278.
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