City of Crystal Warns of Harmful Algae Levels at Winnetka Pond

City of Crystal officials are warning residents about potentially harmful blue-green algae found at Winnetka Pond.

People and pets can get sick if they swallow water with blue-green algae blooms. The algae also impact ecosystems, including fish and other aquatic animals.

The Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission documented potentially harmful algae levels in Winnetka Pond that fit within the World Health Organization category of “moderate probability of adverse health effects.”

Blue-green algae growth at Winnetka Pond in Crystal.

Officials advise people to avoid lakes and streams that appear green and slimy.

“We’re just advising residents, please do not drink this water. Do not put pets in the water or anything like that. I do want to note that this is completely separate from drinking water. No drinking water comes from here. So, drinking water is completely safe,” explained Crystal Public Works Director Mark Ray.

Winnetka Pond is directly downstream of Northwood Lake in New Hope, where algae levels were detected in the same range on Aug. 8.

Crystal