Arizona Game and Fish Department biologists have continued to monitor water quality at Saguaro, Canyon and Apache lakes for golden algae.

In early February, AZGFD confirmed the presence of golden algae in Saguaro Lake after a minor fish kill was observed. Primarily threadfin shad were affected at the time. Recent water quality samples have confirmed an increased abundance of golden algae in Canyon Lake as well. It is common for golden algae to spread to other lakes in the Salt River chain once it has been detected.

As of today, Apache Lake water quality samples have not detected the presence of golden algae. It is likely fish kills will continue in Saguaro and Canyon lakes over the next month or two ranging in severity.

Golden algae can produce toxins harmful to gill-breathing animals, such as fish. Similar golden algae-related fish kills have occurred in Saguaro, Canyon and Apache lakes since 2003. To date, no adverse health impacts have been noted for humans or non-gill-breathing wildlife that have come in contact with waters experiencing a golden alga toxin bloom. AZGFD will provide updates as needed.   back...