The Corps of Engineers at Milford Lake have announced that the Kansas Department of Health & Environment results from lake samples taken this past Monday have been received. Due to high blue green algae cell counts this week all zones of the reservoir, including Zones A, B and C are in a “Warning” status.

A “Warning” indicates that blue green algae is present at a level considered unsafe for people and animals. Contact with lake water should be avoided. But boating on the lake is allowed during a warning.

Lake users are reminded that within any lake zone, blue green algae may appear or disappear suddenly and move as the wind shifts. Boaters should always use caution and move to a clearer portion of the lake.

The designated swim beaches at the Corps of Engineers and Milford State Park will be closed until next week’s test results are known.

On Friday the Project Operations Manager for the Corps at Milford Lake, Bill Whitworth, clarified the status of swimming at the lake. He noted the Corps did close their designated swimming beaches but did not prohibit swimming in the lake. They are advising lake users to observe local conditions and use their judgement to swim or not. Young swimmers, elderly swimmers, those in poor health and pets are advised to err on the conservative side and avoid contact, but again, swimming is not prohibited.