Updated information Regarding Harmful Algal Bloom Identified in Hillsdale County

Monday August 8, 2022

Detection of microcystin updated

Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency previously reported that the Department of Energy, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) had taken water samples from Lake LeAnn and had confirmed the detection of microcystin in the cyanobacterial scum associated with an algal bloom in the lake.  That information was not accurate. Water samples were not taken by EGLE, microcystin was not identified and the Lake LeAnn Property Owners Association (LLPOA) was not contacted.  The Lake LeAnn Property Owners Association has subsequently been informed of the potential of the algal blooms to be harmful and to have the lake residents avoid any contact with the blooms.

“The algal blooms continue to be present in the lake and on August 4, an EGLE employee returned to the lake to consult with a homeowner and the homeowners association.  A water sample was taken and sent to the lab for analysis.  While at the site an initial test strip analysis was completed and resulted in the detection of a small amount of microcystin, not believed to be above the EPA’s recreation limit of 8 ug/l.  Lake LeAnn residents and visitors should continue to avoid contact with the algal blooms.  The final laboratory results of the water test will be shared with the LLPOA once they are available,” says Paul Andriacchi, Director of Environmental Health. “We appreciate our relationship with EGLE, the residents, and members of Lake LeAnn Property Owners Association, and look forward to working together to protect this beautiful natural resource and ensure resident safety.”

The Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency is committed to promoting wellness, preventing disease, providing health care, and protecting the environment.