Dangerous Algae Bloom Warning For Wall Lake In South Dakota

People and pets are warned to stay out of the water at Wall Lake just west of Sioux Falls. 

Wall Lake, located in Minnehaha County, South Dakota, has been experiencing recurring issues with algae blooms, which pose significant environmental and health risks.

These blooms, often caused by excess nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen in the water, can lead to a rapid increase in the algae population.

The dangers of the Wall Lake algae blooms include:

1. Bad Water Quality: Blooms can reduce oxygen levels in the water, potentially leading to fish kills and disrupting the lake's ecosystem.

2. Toxin production: Some algae species produce harmful toxins that can be dangerous to humans, pets, and wildlife if ingested or through skin contact.

3. Recreational impact: Algae blooms can make the lake unsuitable for swimming, fishing, and other water activities.

According to Dakota News Now the Division of Emergency Management recommended that people and pets stay out of the water.

Residents and visitors are advised to stay informed about water quality alerts and avoid contact with the lake water during active bloom periods.