UPDATE on Tuesday, September 2

Eagle Creek Reservoir has blue green algae. This condition usually happens towards the end of summer when we have had hot days and no rain. This algae is being monitored by the health department. The risk is low and we have had very successful events with our Sprint Triathlons both this year and last year despite the blue green algae. Hopefully the conditions will get better as the event nears (a lot has to do with the weather between now and then).

As it stands now, we will do the same as we did for the final Sprint Series event that took place on August 23rd.  We WILL DO A TRIATHLON! We will have a volunteer at the exit of the swim with a spray hose to quickly wash you off - plus you are welcome to use the showers in the bathhouse after the event has completed.

 If you have sensitive skin or don't wish to do the triathlon because of this algae we will add a Duathlon option for you - this will consist of a 2 mile run to begin with (then you do the normal 10 mile bike route and 3 mile final run route). We will produce a separate duathlon results file and give a few awards for this event.

Thank you for your understanding.

-Don Carr, Race Director

Below is the official news release about the B-G Algae:

STATE REPORTS HIGH LEVELS OF BLUE-GREEN ALGAE

AT EAGLE CREEK PARK

INDIANAPOLIS – The Indiana State Department of Health has been notified of a high level of blue-green algae at Eagle Creek Park. 

According to state health officials, direct contact with blue-green algae can cause skin irritation.  In addition, high levels of blue-green algae indicate the possibility of blue-green algae toxin in the water.  If present, standard water treatments prevent algae toxin from affecting drinking water, but it may adversely impact recreational users of the reservoir, like swimmers, tubers, and jet skiers who have skin contact or may swallow large amounts of untreated water.

“We recommend people use caution when swimming, skiing, or participating in other recreational activities in Eagle Creek Park,” said James Howell, DVM, state epidemiologist at the Indiana State Department of Health.  “Avoid coming into direct contact with the algae and try to avoid swallowing water if at all possible.”

Dr. Howell says it is always a good idea to take a bath or shower with warm, soapy water after coming in contact with untreated water in ponds and lakes, especially before preparing or consuming food.  He also recommends people never drink, cook, or shower with untreated water from lakes, ponds, or streams.  Pets and livestock should also not be allowed to swim in or drink untreated water from these sources.

For more information on blue-green algae, visit the Indiana Department of Environmental Management’s Web site at: www.in.gov/idem/algae.