Officials issue ‘water watch’ after harmful blue-green algae found in S.C. lake
HARTWELL, G.A. (FOX Carolina) - The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) issued a Recreational Water Watch for Lake Hartwell after identifying the presence of a harmful algal bloom (HAB).
Environmental Services officials said they were notified of a potential HAB by multiple residents.
Kimberly-Clark announces expansion of Aiken County operation
Kimberly-Clark is announcing the expansion of its Beech Island facility. The addition of the 1.1 million square feet will add to the already largest Kimberly-Clark operation.
Staff began collecting samples from three lake locations near Brooks Drive, Gordon Road and Whitfield Road in Anderson County on April 29. More notifications were received on April 30.
Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) was observed in the collected samples.
The blue-green algae is capable to producing cyanotoxins. So, officials analyzed the samples for the presence of two types of cyanotoxins: cylindrospermopsin and microcystins. The concentrations for both were low.
Officials said HAB are common occurrences in natural bodies of water, most likely to happen in South Carolina in late spring to early fall when water temperatures are warmer and there is increased sunlight.
The blooms can last for several weeks and look like bright green spilled paint or blue-green discoloration of the water, officials said.
According to officials, cooler temperatures, heavy winds and rains may cause the blooms to start to break up and die off.
For more information about harmful algae in South Carolina, visit the SCDES at HABS webpage and Algal Bloom Monitoring Map. Those with questions can also SCDES’S Bureau of Water at 803-898-8374.
Copyright 2025 WRDW/WAGT. All rights reserved.
