EBS STAFF
The Gallatin City-County Health Department has been made aware of suspected harmful algae blooms, or HABs, in Hyalite Reservoir, Hebgen Lake, Heather Lake in the Custer Gallatin National Forest, and in Elk Grove Pond, south of the Four Corners area. HABs are a type of algae, known as cyanobacteria, that can create toxins and pose serious health risks to humans and pets when ingested or in prolonged contact.
HABs form during hot weather and conditions can change rapidly. The GCCHD recommends regularly checking the HAB dashboard for reported sightings before heading out to a body of water.
Children and pets are most likely to ingest HAB infested waters. Direct contact, ingestion, or inhalation of cyanotoxins may irritate the skin, eyes, nose and respiratory system or cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or headaches. If you suspect someone has a HAB-related illness the GCCHD recommends calling call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 and to seek
medical attention as soon as possible.
Individuals can report HABs they see at hab.mt.gov or by calling 888-849-2938, as well as on the GCCHD website.
