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Blue-Green Algae Detected in Isolated Areas of Bear Lake

The BLLB is notifying lakefront owners and visitors that blue-green algae (Microcystis and Dolichospermum /Anabaena) has been identified in isolated areas of the lake.  While not all algae blooms are harmful, some can produce toxins that pose risks to people and pets.

This form of algae is especially hard to treat because it is microscopic and easily mixed in the water column when the lake is stirred up by waves or boats.  It’s most noticeable on calm days with light winds that push the algae to isolated spots on the lake.  Most recently, it was spotted in the channel area, as well as along the properties around the 52 N Bear Lake Rd area on the west shore of the lake (photo attached).  It was not spotted in the middle or other areas of the lake, and there was no sign near the public beaches.

All lakes have some trace of blue-green algae and it is “normal”, and most area lakes have had larger outbreaks over the last few years, but Bear Lake has been spared for the post part due to our aggressive treatment of invasive plants and all algae.

What you should do

  • Avoid contact with water that looks discolored, cloudy, streaky, or has surface scum or mats
  • Keep children and pets out of affected areas (dogs are especially vulnerable)
  • Do not ingest lake water and avoid activities that may cause you to swallow water in affected areas
  • Rinse off with clean water if you come in contact with suspicious algae.
  • Do not let pets drink from the lake in affected areas

What we’re doing

  • The BLLB is actively monitoring the situation and will provide updates as conditions change.  We are working with our lake management provider (PLM), as well as GVSU.  PLM has already done one treatment and will be back out on our lake on Monday, June 29 for their regular monthly treatment, where they will hit any blue-green algae as well.

How You Can Help

  • Please report any suspicious algae sightings to the BLLB through our report link (http://www.bllb.org/report-lake-concerns/), so we can track and respond promptly.
  • Here are some links to helpful information on blue-green algae

Here are a few of links if you want more information on blue-green algae:

https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/blue-green-algae

https://co.muskegon.mi.us/DocumentCenter/View/1680/Blue-Green-Algae-Fact-Sheet-PDF?bidId=

  • June 26, 2026