Lake Frank & Lake Needwood Alert

Montgomery Parks, part of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, is reporting 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.

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