Keystone Lake closed for swimming because of algae levels

The beach at Keystone State Park in Derry Township is closed to swimmers because of elevated algae levels, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources said Wednesday.

Water test results received last week indicated high algae levels in the 78-acre Keystone Lake, according to a DCNR statement. Signs were posted at the beach area on Wednesday. It will remain closed until algae levels decrease.

“As this is a natural event, (we) will need nature to intervene with rainfall and lower temperatures before we can expect algal conditions to improve in the lake. This could be a lengthy closure for swimming at Keystone,” the statement said.

Wesley Robinson, DCNR press secretary, said changes in the beach’s condition won’t be expected until there is significant rain and cooler temperatures.

Harmful algae blooms occur when certain types of microscopic organisms multiply and produce toxins in water, according to the state Department of Health. Cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae, is the most common cause of harmful algae blooms in fresh and brackish waters in Pennsylvania.

Touching, ingesting or inhaling cyanobacteria or cyanobacteria toxins while swimming and boating, eating fish caught in contaminated water, or using contaminated water to cook or drink can be harmful to people or animals. Dogs can be sickened by eating scum or algae and licking their fur after swimming in contaminated water.

Severe illness — including vomiting; diarrhea; neurological problems; skin, eye, nose or throat irritation — or even death could occur with concentrated exposure.

Boating and fishing are still allowed at the lake, but visitors are advised to keep safety in mind when near the water. They are being advised to wash their hands after contact with untreated water, shower or bathe people or pets immediately after doing any water-based recreational activities, and avoid swallowing or inhaling water. Pets should be kept out of the water as a general rule.

The advisory warned people to stay away from water that has any foam, scum or discoloration on it.

Children and pets should be kept away from any algae debris that has washed up on shore, Department of Environmental Protection press secretary Neil Shader advised. It’s also a bad idea to cook with contaminated water. Boiling water, adding bleach or using a water filtration unit will not protect you from algae toxins, he said.

The DCNR website will post updates on the lake’s condition.

State officials in June warned of a harmful algae bloom at Burrell Lake Park in Lower Burrell, which is primarily used for fishing.