The Florida Department of Health in Orange County has issued a blue-green algae bloom caution for Cypress Lake.
The department issued the caution in response to a site visit and water sample that showed the presence of blue-green algae on February 7, 2024.
Visitors to Cypress Lake are advised to not drink, swim, wade, use personal watercraft, water ski or boat in waters where there is a visible bloom. Officials also caution pet and livestock owners to keep their animals away from waters. In addition, anyone fishing in Cypress Lake should avoid eating shellfish. Eating fillets from healthy fish caught in freshwater lakes experiencing blooms is safe, according to the release.
The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) collects algae samples from reported bloom locations for toxin analysis. Once completed, the results are posted on the DEP Algal Bloom Dashboard.
DEP collects and analyzes algal bloom samples. You may report a bloom online to the DEP, or call the toll-free hotline at 855-305-3903.