OKEECHOBEE -- Visitors to the pier at the Clif Betts Jr. Memorial Lakeside Recreation Area (aka Lock 7) noticed a green cast to the water near the shore. While there is an algal bloom at Lock 7, Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) tests on water samples taken June 21 found no toxins in the water.

Algae and cyanobacteria (commonly called blue-green algae) are a natural part of the lake's ecosystem. These microscopic  organisms are always present in lakes, streams, rivers and canals. Most of the time they are not visible to the human eye. Under certain conditions -- hot weather, little water movement and available nutrient load in the water -- they can reproduce rapidly into a visible "bloom."

Not all cyanobacteria are capable of producing toxins and even those capable of producing toxins do not always do so.

You cannot tell what species of cyanobacteria or algae are present in a bloom without laboratory testings. You cannot tell if toxins are present without laboratory testing.

The Florida Department of Health encourages everyone to err on the side of caution when algae and/or cyanobacteria are present in the water. Stay out of areas where blooms are visible. Do not let pets near the water if a bloom is visible.

On a related topic, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) advises the public to keep pets away from lakes and waterways were alligators may be present.

An algal bloom was visible in the water at Lock 7 on June 23. FDEP tests on June 21 found no toxins present.