QUEMADO, N.M. —

Toxic algae blooms have been found in eight bodies of fresh water in New Mexico this year, with Quemado Lake being to first to prohibit public access.

On Monday, the Gila National Forest issued a public health and safety area closure for the lake after high levels of microcystins — which can cause acute poisoning and short- or long-term effects to humans and animals — were detected by the surface water quality bureau of the New Mexico Environment Department.

Toxic algae blooms occur most often in the summer, when sunlight warms stagnant water with high nutrient levels. The water is unsafe for drinking, swimming, wading, boating, paddling, water skiing or fishing, and dogs should not be allowed to play in the water.

Besides Quemado Lake, the closure includes the National

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