Kern County, CA

See where harmful algal blooms (HABs) have been reported in Kern County.

This interactive map shows current water sites being monitored by Kern County Environmental Health. Click on a location icon to check the latest cyanotoxin levels in that area.

Each site is labeled with a trigger level that shows how much toxin is present and whether the water may be unsafe for people or animals.

How are cyanobacteria blooms formed?

Cyanobacteria blooms form when these organisms multiply quickly in:

• Warm water
• Slow-moving or stagnant water bodies
• High nutrient conditions (from fertilizer runoff, agricultural waste, or septic leaks)

These blooms occur most often in late summer or early fall.

What does a cyanobacteria bloom look like?

Blooms can look like:

• Floating scum, foam, or paint-like streaks
• Water in bright green, blue, brown, or red
• Mats or layers blown toward shorelines

They may also produce strong odors, similar to decaying plants. Not all blooms are visible—some may stay beneath the surface.

Why are some cyanobacteria blooms harmful?

Some cyanobacteria release cyanotoxins, which can:

• Harm humans, pets, livestock, and wildlife
• Reduce oxygen levels in water, killing fish and other aquatic life
• Cause skin irritation, stomach illness, and more

You cannot tell if a bloom is toxic just by looking at it. Avoid contact with any suspicious water.

See more information on cyanobacteria from the CDC.

To keep animals safe:

• Do not let them drink from or swim in water with visible algae
• Rinse off immediately if they enter contaminated water

Contact a vet if symptoms occur, such as:

• Vomiting
• Weakness or stumbling
• Seizures
• Excessive drooling
• Sudden illness

Public health signs may be posted at recreational sites to alert visitors.
Types of signs include:

Caution

Warning

Danger

For More Information

For Human Health

• Physician Reference Card

For Animal Health

• Veterinarian Reference Card
• Animal Alert Flyer
• Animal Alert Poster

Contact Information

• CDC Info Line: 800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636)
• Poison Control: 800-222-1222
• State Water Board: HABs Information