Boaters, anglers and other outdoor recreationists are advised that there is an algae bloom at Bartlett Lake. Some algae blooms can make people and pets sick. Harmful blue-green algae can:

Look like pea soup or spilled green paint
Discolor or leave streaks in the water
Be surface scum, mats or films
Appear as green dots or globs floating below the surface

Boating and fishing are acceptable activities, but in waters with visible algae, please:

Stay away from algae and scum in the water
Keep children and pets away from algae in the water or on the shore
DO NOT DRINK or use this water for cooking
When in doubt, stay out

It’s uncertain how long the bloom will affect the lake, but previous blooms have typically lasted for 1-2 weeks. Visitors can contact the U.S. Forest Service Cave Creek Ranger District for up-to-date info on lake conditions, and the Tonto National Forest will continue to provide updates. For more info about harmful algae: http://azdeq.gov/AZHAB.   back...