One of two compounds found in an Illinois River water sample last week mean there is an algae bloom underway. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency says the samples were taken from the north bank by Starved Rock Lock and Dam.
Tests show microcrystin levels at higher than the U.S. E.P.A. says is safe for human contact. Tests were also done for another compound, but it wasn’t detected.
The Illinois E.P.A. says the very young, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems can be easily sickened by contact with such algae. So can pets who drink or get wet with the water.