Toxic bacteria found in Lake Brown
DHEC advises against swimming, fishing and coming into contact with lake water
Jonathan Vickery
jvickery@thepeoplesentinel.com
Lake Edgar Brown in Barnwell is currently under a recreational water advisory.
The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) issued the advisory on August 19 after routine testing detected the presence of toxic bacteria called microcystins, which are toxins produced by cyanobacteria (formerly known as blue-green algae). The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency names microcystins a potent liver toxin and possible human carcinogen.
"Until further notice, no one should swim, wade or come into contact with the water or scum, foam or algae at Lake Edgar Brown," said Bryan Rabon, DHEC's Manager of Aquatic Science Programs with the Bureau of Water.
Results from the sample collected on August 18 as part of DHEC's routine monitoring of natural water bodies throughout the state indicated that microcystins are present in the northern portion of the lake at 9.50 micrograms per liter (ug/L). This is greater than the state's water quality standard of 8 ug/L. Toxins were below state standards when a test was conducted July 14, according to DHEC.
Naturally-occurring algal blooms are nothing new for Lake Brown and other freshwaters across South Carolina. They typically occur during the summer, but do not always produce toxins.
"You cannot tell whether or not a bloom is producing toxins just by looking at it; sometimes the bloom can be producing toxins and sometimes it may not be producing toxins. The reason why some microcystis blooms produce toxins and why some do not is unknown and is still being studied," according to DHEC.
The major factors influencing the growth and reproduction of cyanobacteria are light, temperature, and nutrients, according to DHEC.
"Unfortunately, the combination of environmental factors that lead to specific algal blooms are not well understood. This algal bloom could potentially be attributed to increases in available nutrients, temperature, sunlight, water flow, and/or turbidity," according to the press release.
DHEC is working closely with the S.C. Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), which advises no fish from Lake Edgar Brown should be consumed until the recreational water advisory is lifted. Signs are posted at various locations around the lake.
"Individuals are advised to seek medical attention if they or family members are experiencing illness after coming into contact with the water," according to DHEC. "Pets and livestock also may be vulnerable to adverse health effects of microcystins at the level detected at Lake Edgar Brown above. Contact a veterinarian if animals show signs of illness."
DHEC will post updated information when the microcystin level is less than the state water quality standard and this advisory is lifted, or if there are changes to the conditions of this recreational advisory.
For more information, contact DHEC's Bureau of Water at 803-898-8374. If calling after hours, leave a voicemail that can be returned. For additional information about harmful algae in South Carolina, go to https://www.scdhec.gov/environment/your-water-coast/harmful-algal-blooms.
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