Test results received this week detected high levels of toxicity in algae taken from three sites on Lake LBJ and three sites on Inks Lake, according to the Lower Colorado River Authority. Cyanotoxins from algae can pose a danger to humans and pets when ingested.
The “concerning levels” of toxicity were detected only in the algae itself, not in the lake water.
LCRA has regularly monitored for cyanotoxins in the water in lakes Buchanan, Inks, LBJ, Marble Falls, Travis, Bastrop and Fayette since 2021 – after several dogs became sick or died after contact with algae in Lake Travis.
There have been no reports of human illness or death.
“Pet owners need to take this seriously,” LCRA VP of Water John Hofmann said. “Dogs will eat algae or lick it off their coats, which can have devastating consequences if the algae is producing toxins.”
Testing on lakes Buchanan, Marble Falls or Travis have not been conducted this summer.
For more information on LCRA algae testing, visit www.lcra.org/algae.