KDOW and USACE have confirmed the presence of potentially harmful algal blooms (HABs), or cyanobacteria exceeding safety threshold levels at several lakes in KY including Barren River Lake, Nolin Reservoir, Green River Lake, Rough River Lake, Taylorsville Lake and Greenbriar Creek reservoir in Montgomery County. The Department of Public Health, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Parks, and other stakeholders have been informed of these conditions.

Environmental conditions, including excess phosphorus and nitrogen, sunny conditions, warm temperatures and low flow or low-water conditions contribute to the rapid reproductions and spread of algae on the waterbody.  Some Cyanobacteria produce toxins that may be hazardous to animals and humans.

The above mentioned lakes are open to the public and visitors should be aware of the potential health issues and take precautions.

More information can be found on http://kydep.wordpress.com/2014/06/19/potentially-harmful-algal-blooms-identified-in-several-kentucky-lakes/