Blue-green algae advisory issued for Big Arbor Vitae Lake Beach

The Vilas County Public Health Department (VCPHD) has issued a health advisory, effective immediately (Wednesday, Sept. 2), for Big Arbor Vitae Lake Beach, located on the northeast shoreline of Big Arbor Vitae Lake off Buckhorn Road, due to the presence of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) blooms. 

According to Community Health Educator Caroline Thompson, some species of blue-green algae can produce toxins that may cause illness in both humans and animals. VCPHD is working with the Wisconsin DNR to assess water conditions and post health advisory signage at the beach and other relevant public access points.

Blue-green algae blooms are developing on some lakes in Wisconsin. 

“You are most likely to see blue-green algae blooms when wind speeds are calm, which allows blooms to float at the surface or be blown to downwind shores. Higher winds and waves will break up and disperse floating scums,” Thompson said.

“Most algal toxin-related illnesses are from swallowing blue-green algae in water or inhaling it in water droplets (such as from tubing through a bloom). If you or your pet develops an illness or severe symptoms you think might be related to blue-green algae, seek immediate medical or veterinary care. As soon as possible, please complete the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) online reporting survey or call DHS at 608-266-1120.

Thompson asks the public to reach out to VCPHD at 715-479-3656 for any questions or concerns. “We appreciate your patience, and we apologize for the inconvenience,” she said.

For blue-green algae information, go to the DNR’s blue-green algae page and the DHS blue-green algae page for health information. 

Thompson added that blue-green algae are not always blue. “If you see water that is green or another color and is cloudy or opaque and contains many tiny particles, you may be seeing blue-green algae,” she said.

For identification tips, view a 2021 Wisconsin Water Week presentation on recognizing blue-green algae and conditions to avoid, or refer to DHS blue-green algae fact sheets.