# North Dakota's algal bloom crisis spreads to 20 waterbodies

> Three more North Dakota lakes and dams now carry harmful algal bloom advisories as toxic blooms proliferate across the state.
- Title: North Dakota's algal bloom crisis spreads to 20 waterbodies
- Summary: Three more North Dakota lakes and dams now carry harmful algal bloom advisories as toxic blooms proliferate across the state. North Dakota residents should…
- Keywords: north dakota, harmful algal blooms, blue-green algae, waterbodies, public health, environmental quality, cyanotoxins, recreation safety, water advisories, news, local, North
- Source: Valleynewslive — https://valleynewslive.com/2026/09/17/north-dakota-adds-three-more-waterbodies-harmful-algal-bloom-list-total-reaches-20
- Published: 2026-09-17T19:59:35.421+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: north dakota, harmful algal blooms, blue-green algae, waterbodies, public health, environmental quality, cyanotoxins, recreation safety, water advisories, news, local
## Three more lakes added to bloom list
North Dakota's Department of Environmental Quality issued new harmful algal bloom advisories for Blacktail Dam, Horsehead Lake, and Larimore Dam, bringing the state total to 20 affected waterbodies.
## Advisories vs warnings explained
Advisories mean a bloom is present in portions of a waterbody. Warnings indicate a bloom covers significant portions and toxin levels exceed safe recreational thresholds.
## What causes harmful algal blooms
Harmful algal blooms, also called blue-green algae, develop quickly in warm, sunny weather and can produce cyanotoxins that sicken people, pets, and livestock through water contact or ingestion.

> Some blooms produce cyanotoxins that can make people, pets and livestock sick if the water is swallowed or touched.
## How to stay safe around blooms
Check water conditions before recreation, avoid swimming or drinking from suspected bloom areas, and keep pets away. Rinse with fresh water immediately if contact occurs.
## Report suspected blooms to DEQ
Contact North Dakota's Department of Environmental Quality at 701-328-5210, through tinyurl.com/WMP-HABS, or by emailing DEQ-HAB@nd.gov to report suspected blooms. Updates run May 1 through December 31.
## Key takeaway

North Dakota residents should check water conditions before recreation and avoid contact with affected waterbodies, as harmful algal blooms continue to spread rapidly across the state.