Stephens Lake remains closed as officials wait for algae test results

Stephens Lake will remain closed until further notice as the Department of Natural Resources waits on test results to determine if the lake’s algae is toxic.

Officials took two types of water samples Friday to determine if algae blooms in the water are toxic. The more detailed test will take several days to produce results.

The blooms can reduce oxygen in the water and produce toxins and bacteria considered harmful to humans and animals. Exposure can cause minor skin and eye irritations or more serious conditions affecting the brain and liver.

Lynn Milberg, an algae expert with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, said the department is concerned about pets drinking the water.

“From a human standpoint, you’re going to have to consume quite a bit of water before you see those types of situations,” she said. “We really become concerned with pets.”

She said if a dog drinks the water or eats algae that is on the lake shore, it can make them sick or even kill them.

Blue-green algae is common in the warm and dry months, especially when the water is stagnant without rain to flush the lake out, according to Lynn.

“It’s hard to control it, and sometimes, you have to let it hold its course,” she said. “There are treatments, and I believe the city is looking at some of that.”

The lake is scheduled to close for the season on Sept. 30.