Glendo Reservoir Issues Toxin Advisory

Water is an interesting thing. Without it, we die. When we have too much of it, we die. When water is involved, things can be unpredictable. There are quite a few water-related issues that can affect us here in Wyoming, and Glendo Reservoir is being affected by a harmful issue now.

A Toxin Advisory has been issued for the Sandy Beach Dune Campground at Glendo. This could be an issue if you're planning on having any water activities while spending time at the park.

Currently, there are issues with Harmful Cyanobacterial Blooms (HCBs) in that area, which can be extremely harmful to humans and animals.

From the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality:

What are HCBs?

Harmful cyanobacterial blooms (HCBs) are dense concentrations of cyanobacteria (photosynthetic single-celled microscopic organisms) that pose a health risk to people and animals. Cyanobacteria are commonly referred to as blue-green algae because they look very similar to algae. For this same reason, HCBs are commonly referred to as harmful algal blooms or HABs.See pictures HERE.

What do HCBs look like?

Under normal conditions, cyanobacteria are present in surface waters at low levels and play an important role in aquatic ecosystems. When HCBs occur, cyanobacteria become visibly abundant and can look like grass clippings, blue-green scum, or spilled paint on the water surface. HCBs may also be suspended in the water column or attached to rocks, sediments, or aquatic plants.

You're advised on the following in the water around the affected area:

• No Swimming
• No Drinking or ingesting
• Avoid Water Spray (from a watercraft)
• Please keep your pets and livestock away, and don't allow them to drink.

If you come into contact with HCBs, the DEQ recommends the following.

Rinse off with fresh water and contact a doctor or veterinarian. Report HCB-related illnesses to the Wyoming Department of Health. The Wyoming Poison Control Center can be reached at 1-800-222-1222.

Learn more about HCBs by watching the video below.