Montgomery Parks asks visitors to use caution and urges pet owners to keep dogs out of the lake.
SILVER SPRING, MD—Montgomery Parks, part of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission has learned today that elevated levels of microcystin have been detected in Lake Frank, in addition to Lake Needwood, which was determined in late July. The department is urging residents to use caution when recreating on or near both lakes which are located within Rock Creek Regional Park. Microcystin is a toxic substance produced by blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) and if ingested can cause serious harm to the liver of humans and pets. Montgomery Parks urges visitors to take the following precautions:
- Keep dogs on leash (as is regularly required at the park), and do not allow them to drink or go in the water
- Swimming is prohibited in the lake at all times
- Wash hands thoroughly if they come in contact with the water
- Only eat properly cooked muscle meat of fish that are caught in the lake
Boating and fishing will remain open at Lake Needwood.
“We have posted signs around Lake Needwood and will do the same near Lake Frank to alert visitors of these important precautions,” said Jai Cole, Principal Natural Resource Specialist for Montgomery Parks. “Portions of both lakes may be contaminated for the rest of the season. We will continue to monitor and update signs when the warning is lifted.”
For updates or more information, visit www.MontgomeryParks.org.
About The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission Montgomery Parks:
Montgomery Parks manages more than 35,000 acres of parkland, consisting of 418 parks. Montgomery Parks is a department of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC), a bi-county agency established in 1927 to steward public land. The M-NCPPC has been nationally recognized for its high-quality parks and recreation services, and is regarded as a national model by other parks systems. www.MontgomeryParks.org
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