Maumee River algae still a problem

A harmful algae bloom in the Maumee River has prompted a public health advisory. The Defiance County General Health District says elevated levels of algotoxins were detected in the river on June 2nd during testing by the Ohio EPA. While algae has been seen in the river before, the Defiance water superintendent Adam McDowell says this is the first time they’ve seen algotoxins in the water at these high of levels. The problem comes from an excessive amount of nutrients, nitrogen and phosphorous combining with oxygen, sunlight and warm temperatures. The drinking water in Defiance is not affected. Officials say during this advisory time, if you come into contact with the water from the Maumee River, rinse your skin immediately. Exposure can cause symptoms from a rash, hives or blisters, to severe diarrhea, vomiting and abdominal pain. If you have any of those symptoms, see a doctor right away.