Possible Blue-Green Algae: Lake In The Hills Beaches Closed

LAKE IN THE HILLS, IL — Village officials have closed both of the beaches in Lake in the Hills due to reports of algae in Woods Creek Lake, and village officials said Friday.

On Friday, employees with the village's publics works department detected a possible blue-green algae bloom near the spillway in Woods Creek Lake on the lake's south side. Visible algae was also spotted within the swimming area at Indian Trail Beach, according to a news release from the village.

Both Indian Trail Beach and Butch Hagele Beach have been closed, according to the news release. Village officials have also decided to cancel the village of Lake in the Hills Fishing Tournament, which is held in honor of Connor Kincaid. The tournament was scheduled to take place Saturday.

While most blue-green algal blooms are not harmful, some blooms produce hazardous toxins, according to a news release. Blue-green algae can be mildly toxic to humans when blooming, and contact may result in a rash, mild nausea or allergic reactions.

Blooming blue-green algae can also be toxic to animals, so practice caution and prevent pets from drinking from and entering Woods Creek Lake.

Updates regarding the status of the beach operations can be found on the village’s website.