DOH-Lee lifts health alert for blue-green algae at Alva Boat Ramp

On April 30, the Florida Department of Health (DOH) in Lee County lifted a health alert at Alva Boat Ramp based on water sampling results from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) after DEP conducted sampling in the area and did not detect the presence of microcystin toxins.

When toxins are detected, DOH recommends individuals using the boat ramp avoid contact with the water. DEP will continue to monitor the Alva Boat Ramp and post updates on their website.

Blue-green algae can cause gastrointestinal effects if swallowed. Children and pets are especially vulnerable, so keeping them away from the water during a bloom is especially important.

Additional information on blue-green algae is available on the Florida DOH website.

If you wish to report a new algae bloom please, visit DEP’s Algal Bloom Monitoring & Response webpage.

DEP, the five water management districts, DOH, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services all work together to respond to algal blooms.

DEP has been closely monitoring and testing algal blooms and will continue to respond to any new reports.