Oregon Public Broadcasting

Oregon Public Health is warning people to stay out of two lakes in the state. Blue-green algae blooms might be contaminating the water with dangerous toxins. Amelia Templeton reports.

Diamond Lake is a popular place to cool off in the summer in southern Oregon. Willow Creek Reservoir is a fishing spot in Morrow County.

The algae that Oregon Public Health is afraid of can produce toxins that attack the liver and nervous system. Swimming in the water may give you a rash. Drinking it can lead to more serious symptoms.

Robert Anderson works at the marina at the Diamond Lake Resort. He says no one seems to be paying any attention to the warnings.

Robert Anderson: "Um, we've got people swimming right now. The beach is full of people. We've got 50 or 60 people in front of the  lodge. All kinds of fisherman on the lake today."

State health officials stress that swimming in the lakes isn't a good idea—especially for young children and the elderly.