Another toxic algae alert issued for lake near Lincoln

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Bluestem Lake near Lincoln will remain under a health alert for another week.

On Thursday, the state issued a warning about harmful algal blooms in the lake for the second week in a row.

The algae produces a toxin called microcystin.

The latest water samples from the lake show that the levels of the toxin are still above the safe threshold of eight parts per billion, according to officials.

Swimming beaches are closed, and lakegoers should avoid exposure to the water, especially any activity that could lead to swallowing water.

But recreational boating and fishing are still allowed.

Bluestem Lake is in southwest Lancaster County, near Southwest 42nd Street and West Sprague Road.