Check water for algae before diving in
When summer heats up in Michigan, many people flock to one of the State’s 11,000 inland lakes or numerous rivers to cool off. If you’re planning a fun day of rest and relaxation on the water, just make sure you look for algae before you dive in.
Algae are a large group of naturally occurring plant-like organisms found in water. Dense populations of algae are called a bloom. Some blooms are harmless, but some produce toxins, which can be poisonous to humans, animals, and aquatic life.
When conditions are right, these organisms can rapidly increase to form cyanobacteria blooms, or harmful algal blooms. A bloom can occur when the water temperature is warm, conditions are calm, and the water has a high level of nutrients, like phosphorus and nitrogen. Excess nutrients can come from pollution such as lawn and farm fertilizers, animal manure, storm water runoff, sewage treatment plant discharges, and malfunctioning septic tanks. Invasive zebra and quagga mussels help make water conditions right for harmful algal blooms.
Residents should be cautious of and avoid direct contact with water that might have an algal bloom. Blooms can take on many appearances. They can be different colors, can look foamy or scummy, look like a mat on the surface of the water, look like spilled paint, have a green sheen to it, or even look clumpy. To see examples of what an algal bloom looks like, visit https://www.mmdhd.org/recreational-water/ and click on “Harmful Algal Bloom Picture Guide.”
It’s difficult to tell by looking at a bloom if it is harmful or not, so when in doubt, keep yourself and animals out of the water.
If you think you may have found an algal bloom, you can report it to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) by emailing AlgaeBloom@michigan.gov (pictures are encouraged) or by calling 800-662-9278.
You should also take the following actions if you think you have found a harmful algal bloom:
– Obey posted signs for public health advisories and/or beach closings.
– Do not let people, pets, or livestock in the water or near the shore in affected areas.
– Do not let people, pets or livestock drink untreated surface water, especially if an algal bloom is present.
– Always rinse off people and pets after contact with any lake water.
– Do not water lawns or gardens with impacted water.
– Do not have direct contact with mussels from impacted areas.
– Limit or avoid eating fish from impacted areas. If fish are consumed, eat only the filets, remove the guts and the liver and rinse filets in clean drinking water. Always follow the State’s Eat Safe Fish Guidelines www.michigan.gov/eatsafefish even if a waterbody appears clear of algae.
– Report unpleasant tastes or smells in your drinking water to the local water utility.
Breathing in or swallowing water containing harmful algal blooms and their toxins may cause the following symptoms in people: diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain, headache, weakness, numbness, tingly fingers, dizziness, difficulty breathing, asthma-like symptoms, runny eyes and nose, allergic reactions, sore throat, headache, and allergic reactions. Skin contact can cause rashes, blisters, or hives. If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms after contact with water that may have a harmful algal bloom, call your doctor right away.
Animals, especially dogs, can become ill or die after contact with a harmful algal bloom. Sings of illness include vomiting, diarrhea, staggered walking, and convulsions. If your pet or livestock animal becomes sick after contact with water that may have a harmful algal bloom, contact your veterinarian right away.
To help prevent harmful algal blooms, Michiganders can:
– Use phosphate-free detergents
– Dispose of pet waste properly
– Apply fertilizer only when necessary and applying the recommended amount according to label instructions. A buffer should be left when applying fertilizer near a lake or stream.
For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/habs
Free meals every Tuesday
His Cup Runneth Over, a free meal ministry, will be doing free meals every Tuesday starting Tuesday.
Free meals will be given out from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at First Congregational Church, 100 Maple Ave., St. Johns. They will be located in the back southwest corner of the parking lot.
Everyone is welcome to come, and it is free for all who come. For those unable to pick up lunch, please call to arrange for delivery by Monday.
If you would like to get involved in volunteering or need a delivery call or text 517-388-2005 or 989-544-5764.
AgroExpo returns as biggest agricultural trade show in Michigan August 17 and 18
After going virtual last year, AgroExpo is returning on August 17 and 18 as the biggest agricultural trade show in Michigan.
This will be the fifth time AgroExpo has been held at the North Central Research Station in St Johns. The show is designed for production farmers, as it features agricultural demonstrations, speakers, vendors, and exhibits. “We’re excited to bring the agricultural community together again for AgroExpo. While the virtual option worked fine for last year, we’re glad our sponsors, vendors, and farmers are all working together to make this a valuable in-person show,” said Burt Henry, AgroExpo Industry Relations and Promotions Manager.
This year’s demonstration will show tillage options and corn silage choppers. There are over 120 vendors and exhibits, which include equipment manufacturers, seed companies, and chemical and fertility providers.
Seven speakers over the two days will focus on issues related to succession planning, irrigation technology, and other focused agronomic solutions. They include Kristin Poley, Clayton Irani, Mike Fraleigh, Mark Torregrossa, Jeff Schussler, Stephanie Smith, and Andy Stroop. Attendees can also receive CCA and RUP credits.
The Michigan FFA Crop Management Challenge, where FFA students compete on growing soybeans and corn, is also held at AgroExpo. FFA students will also compete in a tractor driving contest, where they will showcase both their operational skills and knowledge.
As always, AgroExpo attendees can evaluate the over 80 varieties of soybeans and 80 different corn hybrids on the grounds. Food trucks, vehicle test driving opportunities, and attendee networking will also run over the two days.
“The mission of the show is to connect, discover, and innovate. We want to thank all of our loyal participants and team of industry professionals, volunteers, and farmers who are making this possible,” said Jay Eccleton, AgroExpo site manager.
AgroExpo is scheduled for August 17 and 18. Visit theagroexpo.com for the show schedule.
RBW Class of 1964 to meet August 29
The Rodney B. Wilson High School Class of 1964 will hold their Annual Potluck Picnic on Sunday August 29, 2021.
They also welcome the Class Members of 1965 and 1963 to join them.
Please plan to arrive at the St. Johns City Park Main Pavilion between 12:00 and 12:30 and eat at 1:00p.m.
Any Questions Contact: Jan Ernst-Chick on Facebook or Rick Knight.
Concert in the Park Series 2021 Line-up:
August 18 — FRENDZ (Great Vintage Classic Rock)
August 25 — David Bennett Quartet (From Swing to Rock)
September 1 — Matt King (An Award Winning Tribute to Elvis)
New Brown Bag Concert Series line-up
August 13 – Clique Vocals – Jazz Ballads, Pops and Contemporary Mix, Dan Templin and Kelly Sandula-Gruner
August 20 – Peter Madcat Ruth – Grammy Award Winning Blue, Folk and More, John Churchville
August 27 – Kitty Donohoe – Emmy-Award Winner w/ Irishy, Folk and Canadianish