(KLZA) -- Water tests collected on September 3 have confirmed that toxic algae levels at Kirkman’s Cove Recreation Area near Humboldt have exceeded limits set for safe contact with the water.

In addition the bacteria levels in the lake also exceeded safety limits set for public recreation lakes. Therefore, the lake has been placed on “Health Alert Status”, which means the swimming beach will be closed effective immediately and all body contact activities including swimming, wading, and water skiing are restricted.

Nemaha NRD officials report that the recreation area itself remains open, and all other usual activities such as boating, picnicking, camping, and hiking are permitted. Fishing is still allowed, though anglers are encouraged to practice “catch and release” as the toxins could be present in the liver, intestines, and pancreas of fish.

Visitors to the park are cautioned not to ingest or make contact with the water and to particularly make sure children and pets do not come into contact with the water. Most of the risk associated with this form of algae is limited to skin irritations; however, gastrointestinal illness and liver disease could result from ingestion of the water.

Signs will be posted at the lake informing visitors of the water restrictions at Kirkman’s Cove, which will remain in effect until further notice. Because of the high readings, the beach must remain closed until results drop below safety limits for two consecutive weeks. NRD personnel continue to monitor the waters at all of its public recreation areas weekly and, if necessary, will issue alerts via local news media and the Nemaha NRD’s website, www.nemahanrd.org and on our Facebook page.