Health Officials Issue Blue-green Algae Alert In C-51 Canal to Caution Boaters and Pet Owners

The Florida Department of Health in Palm Beach County issued a health alert Monday for the presence of harmful blue-green algae toxins in parts of Palm Beach County.

Harmful blue-green algae toxins showed up in water samples that were taken on June 15, officials said.

The alert covers the C-51 canal – S155 (upstream) and Pahokee Marina at Lake Okeechobee.

It’s the second health alert this month for the C-51 canal, which empties into the Lake Worth Lagoon near the Southern Boulevard Bridge.

A separate health alert was issued June 7 for the C-51 after samples found toxins in the water.

The Pahokee Marina has seen algae blooms for several months and was closed in April for a cleanup.

Residents should exercise caution in and around these areas, the health department said.

Do not swim, wade or use boats or any other watercraft in waters where there is a visible bloom.

Wash your skin and clothing with soap and water if you have contact with algae or discolored or smelly water.

Keep pets away from the area. Waters where there are algae blooms are not safe for animals.