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Austin's dog-killing algae is here – earlier than normal

Algae along Lady Bird Lake in October 2022.
Patricia Lim
/
KUT
Algae along Lady Bird Lake in October 2022.

Toxic algae is back in Austin’s waterways.

The city’s Watershed Protection Department is warning dog owners to keep them away from the blue-green algae growths, which can kill pets. The department said it found likely blooms at Red Bud Isle and Jessica Hollis Park on Lake Austin.

The blue-green algae contains a harmful neurotoxin. It first cropped up here in 2019 at Red Bud Isle, near Barton Springs spillway, and on the north shore of Lady Bird Lake.

While not fatal to humans, it can cause skin irritation after prolonged contact with algal blooms.

The department spotted this bloom, but has not tested it yet. It typically does tests in summer and fall.

"The blue-green algae is mixed in with lots of green algae," the department said. "Please assume it may be toxic and avoid it."

Cyanobacteria occurs in algae blooms fueled by sunlight, warmer water and runoff up the chain of Highland Lakes. Rising temperatures mean those blooms are occurring more frequently. Invasive zebra mussels are also filtering the water, allowing more sun to reach blooms.

Andrew Weber is KUT's government accountability reporter. Got a tip? You can email him at aweber@kut.org. Follow him on Twitter @England_Weber.
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