Pikeview Reservoir, a popular fishing lake in central Colorado Springs and part of our water system, recently tested positive for blue-green algae. While the reservoir is still safe for fishing, humans and pets are prohibited from entering the water until further notice. Anglers are directed to thoroughly clean fish and discard guts.
Pikeview has been removed as a source for drinking water until the reservoir is determined to be clear of the algae. There are no concerns about this affecting water supply for the community.
“It’s our responsibility to provide safe, reliable drinking water to our community and to always consider public safety at our reservoirs. We will continue to closely monitor our reservoirs and take appropriate actions,” Earl Wilkinson, Chief Water Services Officer said.
We conduct more than 400 water quality tests a month and collect approximately 12,000 water samples throughout our water system annually. With the increased risk of the blue-green algae, we are increasing the frequency of testing reservoirs at lower elevations.
There is an increasing occurrence of toxic blue-green algae in reservoirs across the United States this year, forcing limitation of recreational access to the bodies of water for public safety.
Warming temperatures have contributed to the growth of the bacteria.
Prospect Lake, a recreational lake in Colorado Springs, also recently tested positive for the algae and is also closed to full-body contact.
Sickness including nausea, vomiting, rash, irritated eyes, seizures and breathing problems could occur following exposure to the blue-green algae in the water. Anyone suspicious of exposure with onset of symptoms should contact their doctor or veterinarian.