Blue-green algae closes Riley Lake Beach in Eden Prairie

Riley Lake Beach is temporarily closed after a blue-green algae bloom was detected near the beach and boat launch, the city of Eden Prairie announced Tuesday.

The closure will remain in effect until water quality testing confirms the water is safe for swimming.

Blue-green algae are bacteria that naturally occur in Minnesota lakes and ponds but can become hazardous when they rapidly multiply under warm, stagnant, nutrient-rich conditions. The blooms often resemble pea soup or bright green paint and may emit a strong, swamp-like odor as they decompose.

While not all blue-green algae are toxic, health officials warn that people and pets should avoid contact with water when algae are visible or when water clarity is less than three feet. Pets are particularly at risk because they tend to swallow water while swimming.

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To reduce exposure, health officials recommend avoiding swimming or wading in affected areas and rinsing off thoroughly after water contact.

For more information, residents can visit the Minnesota Department of Health’s Harmful Algal Blooms fact sheet or the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency’s blue-green algae guidance page.