HEALTH OFFICIALS LIFT ALERT FOR BLUE-GREEN ALGAE BLOOM FOR STARKE LAKE - BOAT RAMP

Contact:
Kent Donahue
Kent.Donahue@flhealth.gov
407-858-1472

ORLANDO, FL – The Florida Department of Health in Orange County has lifted the Health Alert for the presence of blue-green algae in Starke Lake (Boat Ramp). This is in response to a site visit and water samples taken from the site.

The public may resume normal activities in and around Starke Lake. Because of the fluid and organic nature of algal blooms it is possible that bloom conditions could return so the public is advised to watch for and report future algae blooms on Starke Lake. 

Find current information about Florida’s water quality status and public health notifications for harmful algal blooms and beach conditions by visiting ProtectingFloridaTogether.gov. Protecting Florida Together is the state’s joint effort to provide statewide water quality information to prioritize environmental transparency and commitment to action.

What do I do if I see an algal bloom?

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) collects and analyzes algal bloom samples. To report a bloom to FDEP, call the toll-free hotline at 855-305-3903 or report online.

To report fish kills, contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute at 1-800-636-0511.

Report symptoms from exposure to a harmful algal bloom or any aquatic toxin to the Florida Poison Information Center, call 1-800-222-1222 to speak to a poison specialist immediately.

Contact your veterinarian if you believe your pet has become ill after consuming or having contact with blue-green algae contaminated water.

If you have other health questions or concerns about blue-green algae blooms, please call the Florida Department of Health in Orange County Call Center at 407-723-5004

About the Florida Department of Health

The department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.

Follow us on Twitter at @HealthyFla and on Facebook. For more information about the Florida Department of Health please visit www.FloridaHealth.gov.