Willow Creek Lake on Alert for Blue-Green Algae

As of Friday, September 29, 2023, Willow Creek is still on health alert for blue-green algae. Beach sampling has ended for 2023 and will resume in May 2024.

The State of Nebraska has issued a health alert for toxic blue-green algae at Willow Creek Lake in Pierce County. Samples taken on August 14th at the Willow Creek SRA were above the health alert threshold of 8 parts-per-billion (ppb) of total microcystin (a toxin released by certain strains of blue-green algae).

When a health alert is issued, signs are posted to advise the public to use caution, and designated swimming beaches are closed during the alert. Recreational boating and fishing are permitted, but the public is advised to use caution and avoid exposure to the water, particularly avoiding any activity that could lead to swallowing the water. Do not let pets get in the water or drink from the lake. People can still use the public areas for camping, picnics, and other outdoor activities.

To stay up to date on current health alerts, please visit the Department of Environment and Energy Beach Watch webpage: https://deq-iis.ne.gov/zs/bw/