The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) is encouraging anglers and recreators to use caution after Virginia Lake in Reno was placed under a harmful algal bloom (HAB) watch earlier this week.
Virginia Lake is one of NDOW's regularly stocked urban fisheries. While fishing is still allowed, NDOW encourages anglers to consider fishing at another nearby waterbody until the HAB watch has been lifted.
NDOW also wants to make the public aware that visible algae is currently present at Paradise Park Pond, another waterbody regularly stocked by the department. While Paradise Park Pond is not currently under a HAB watch, visitors should use caution around any waterbody with visible algae and stay informed about changing conditions.
If you choose to fish at either location, wash your fish thoroughly with clean water before cleaning or processing it, as harmful algal bloom toxins can be present on the skin. As always, discard the guts and rinse your hands, knives and cutting surfaces after cleaning fish.
People and pets should avoid contact with water that appears bright green, blue-green, scummy or has visible algal mats. Harmful algal blooms can produce toxins that pose risks to humans, pets, livestock, and wildlife.
Anglers looking for another place to cast a line can visit several nearby NDOW-stocked waters, including:
- Idlewild Park Pond (Reno)
- Sparks Marina (Sparks)
- Marilyn's Pond (Galena)
- Bailey's Pond (Carson City)
Learn more about HABs and find out current conditions at local waterbodies here.
(NDOW contributed to this report)
