The Florida Department of Health in Martin County has lifted a health alert for the presence of harmful blue-green algal toxins for the waters in the C-44 canal near the St. Lucie Lock in Stuart, the eastern shoreline of Lake Okeechobee and at Port Mayaca in Indiantown following water sample results taken by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Samples in those areas have not detected the presence of microcystin toxins for 30 days or more.

It is important that the public exercise caution and good judgement. Blue-green algae blooms can move around or subside and then reappear when conditions are favorable again. Residents and visitors are advised to avoid contact with the water if blooms are observed.

DEP collects and analyzes algal bloom samples and posts results online: https://floridadep.gov/AlgalBloom. To report a bloom to DEP, call the toll-free hotline at 855-305-3903 or report online.

Report symptoms from exposure to a harmful algal bloom or any aquatic toxin to the Florida Poison Information Center. Call 1-800-222-1222 to speak to a poison specialist.