Warrenville, Ill. – Visitors to Blackwell Forest Preserve are being urged to stay away from Silver Lake after officials confirmed an active harmful algal bloom Friday. The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County warns the bloom could make pets, children, and people with weakened immune systems seriously ill if they ingest or inhale affected water.
According to the district, the bloom can appear as blue, green, or brown scum on the surface of the water and may produce toxins harmful to both humans and animals. While it’s impossible to tell by sight whether toxins are present, officials are advising residents to avoid touching the water, keep pets away, and wash thoroughly if contact occurs.
Staff will continue inspecting the lake daily, and warning signs will remain posted until the bloom clears. Similar blooms often develop in warm weather and can spread quickly.
