HARRISON, Ark. (KTHV) – The Buffalo River continues to experience significant algal growth this summer as hot and dry conditions persist. Most algae are harmless, but certain types can make people and pets sick if they swim in or drink water in close proximity to the algae.
This year a species of blue-green algae (also called cyanobacteria) has been identified within the river. This species has the potential to produce cyanotoxins, which can be harmful to humans and pets.
Unfortunately, you cannot tell if algae would produce cyanotoxins just by looking at it.
A few visitors have reported illnesses after swimming in areas with algae this month. The National Park Service (NPS) has been working closely with the US Public Health Service (USPHS) and the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) to determine the causes of the reported illnesses. The testing conducted so far has not identified a pathogen directly linked to algae. However, we are continuing to explore more extensive testing options with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
We are also sampling the river to determine the abundance of potentially harmful algae and cyanotoxins. On July 17, Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) sampled four sites in the middle and lower districts of the river, including downstream of Spring Creek and at Dillard’s Ferry, for two common cyanotoxins (Microcystin and Cylindrospermopsin). The values in the Buffalo River were below the detectable thresholds of 0.1 micrograms/L for Microcystins and 0.04 micrograms/L for Cylindrospermopsin. These values are far below the EPA draft recreation values for concern for these toxins (4.0 micrograms/L for Microcystins and 10.0 micrograms/L for Cylindrospermopsin).
Visitors are urged to remain aware of their surroundings and avoid swimming in areas with heavy algae coverage. If children are present, ensure they do not allow water into their mouth or swallow water from the river or tributaries. Visitors should practice CDC recommendations for purifying water used for consumption.
