SPIRIT LAKE, IA (RADIOIOWA) – Reports of blue-green algae are beginning to surface in parts of the Iowa Great Lakes.

Iowa DNR Fisheries Biologist Andrew Carlson says blooms are common this time of year.  He says warm water and excess nutrients can create favorable conditions for the algae.  Carlson recommends paying close attention to water conditions before swimming.

According to the DNR’s most recent beach monitoring data, swimming is currently not recommended at Emerson Bay Beach on West Okoboji due to elevated algae levels.  Meanwhile, Crandall’s Beach on Big Spirit Lake has returned to normal status.