Blue-Green Algae
Summer makes for nice hiking weather and many of us head into the great outdoors with our pet companions. With many summer activities taking place near streams and ponds, you may think you don’t need to worry about drinking water for your animals. But on warm, sunny days, you need to be careful to avoid water sources with toxic blue-green algae. These algae, which are actually bacteria, can kill cattle and other animals that drink contaminated water. Risk conditions include warm and sunny days, stagnant ponds and low water flow in streams, all conditions that occur during the summer.
Viewer Tip: To help keep your pets healthy and avoid blue-green algae, fence off any stagnant ponds or low-flowing water around your home. When you’re out recreating, monitor your pet’s drinking habits and always be sure to pack clean, fresh water for you and your furry companions.
Season: Summer
This information is provided by ATTRA, National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service. Learn more at www.attra.ncat.org.
