The latest data from the Utah Department of Environmental Quality has the majority of Utah Lake on an orange advisory due to HABs, meaning people are advised not to swim, though boating is allowed. Lindon Marina, however, is under a red advisory, and boats are advised to avoid areas with algae.

In Wasatch County, Deer Creek Reservoir was placed under warning advisories this month due to HABs. East Wallsburg Bay and South Basin boat ramp are under a yellow advisory, warning swimmers to avoid patches of algae, while Rainbow Bay and Island Park Marina are under an orange advisory, calling for people to avoid swimming.

Fishing is allowed in both lakes, but officials suggest discarding the skin and guts.

Several smaller water bodies are also under orange advisories due to HABs, including the Jordan River in Lehi, Highland Glen Reservoir and Salem Pond.

HABs are naturally occurring cyanobacteria that can multiply to high densities and discolor the water. The Utah Department of Environmental Quality said they can appear as pea soup, spilled paint, grass clippings or water that has a blue-green hue. Ingesting HABs can be toxic and affect the liver, nerve and skin tissue.

Ellen Bailey with the UDEQ said blooms are typical for this time of the year. She warned animals and young children are most suspectable to ingesting water.

“If you’re near the water with with pets or with with young children, it’s most concerning to to heed those warnings,” Bailey said. 

The state will stop monitoring HABs in October as the temperature starts to cool and water recreation slows down. Bailey warned, though, that there still remains a risk from going in the water later in the year.

Waterfowl hunting season will begin on Saturday, and the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources wants hunters to recognize algal blooms and keep their dogs away if they suspect they are near them.

If you suspect your dog has been exposed to harmful algae, seek immediate care from your veterinarian,” DWR said. “Even with proper veterinary care, exposures may be fatal. Prevention is the best way to protect your pet.”