High levels of dangerous algae are blooming in the San Luis Reservoir

MERCED COUNTY (KFSN) -- The calming sounds of the shore, and the breath taking scenery, of the San Luis Reservoir attracts travelers driving by to stop and take a look. But looking from a distance is what state water officials are advising after a harmful algae bloom was detected in the reservoir's water.

Officials with Department of Water Resources said they found dangerous levels of the blue green algae bloom after testing the water by the Basalt Boat Ramp.

"The first detection this year occurred sooner than it did last year, so it's a combination of stagnant water and high temperatures that's the cause of the algae blooms," said Doug Carlson, Water Resources Department.

Angelica Lara, a San Bernardino resident, was wading by the reservoir's shore with her family. She had no idea of what was in the water.

"It looks harmless, like you can take a little dip and keep driving."

State water officials said the algae can cause people to get violently sick if ingested and if your pets come into contact with it, it could kill them.

The department is doing weekly tests of the water. Common water purification techniques, such as boiling, won't kill the toxins and people are also asked to not eat the fish.

Some say the green stuff doesn't bother them.

"We're still gonna fish and throw the fish back, you know, we're still gonna have fun," said Alex Tran, reservoir visitor.

Others, like Lara, are packing up and cutting their visit to the reservoir short.

"We don't want to get nobody sick."

The advisory does not apply to the O'Neil Forebay, and if you come into contact with the blue green algae you are asked to call the local public health department immediately.