HomeMy WebLinkAboutJuly 2021 Utility Bill Insertse impact of algae on p eople and p ets
Blue-green algae blooms can be found in the summer in ponds, lakes, and streams. Some blooms contain toxins called
microcystins, which can be dangerous to dogs and other pets, and cause skin irritation, rashes, and flu-like symptoms in humans.
Not all algae are toxic; but when in doubt, stay out and follow this advice from the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH):
•Never drink untreated surface water, whether or not algae blooms are present. Water from lakes, rivers, or streams may
contain algae toxins or other bacteria, parasites, or viruses that could cause illness if consumed.
•People, pets, and livestock should avoid contact with water that is discolored or has surface scum. This includes
swimming, water skiing, tubing, boating, etc. If contact does occur, wash with soap and water or rinse thoroughly with clean
water to remove algae. This is especially important for dogs as they may lick the algae off their fur to clean themselves.
•Seek medical attention if symptoms occur while in contact with untreated sur face water, such as skin, eye or throat
irritation, allergic reactions, or breathing difficulties. These symptoms are unusual, but may occur in sensitive individuals.
Algae FAQ:
bit.ly/algaefaq
Questions? Contact the Iowa Department of Public Health:
515-281-8707 | stuart.schmitz@idph.iowa.gov
State and County beach monitoring info:
515-725-3434 | bit.ly/Beach-Monitoring
The City has contracted with Surveying And Mapping (SAM), LLC, to map the
sanitary sewer collection system this June through September. This work is
part of a larger Asset Management project currently underway for the City’s
utilities, and the information gathered will assist with long-term planning of
utility upgrades and repairs. Residents may notice crews in their neighbor-
hoods weekdays, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., and occasionally outside these hours
when traffic counts are lower. Crews wear yellow reflective vests and hard
hats with the SAM logo, and their vehicles are clearly marked.
Crews may require access into and through private property, but never
in your home. City easements allow for such access, and crews will be as
respectful and unobtrusive as possible. At times, sewer manholes may need
to be temporarily uncovered to allow for their full inspection, which includes
taking measurements and photos. SAM will make every effort to respect
your property; they will replace manhole covers, restore disturbed landscap-
ing, and minimize their impact in these areas. Maps with updated crew loca-
tions can be found at icgov.org/SAM and on the NextDoor app.
No service interruptions are anticipated.
S ewer mapping
continues in IC
neighborhoods
Questions? Contact SAM at 660-562-0050,
or Wastewater Superintendent Tim Wilkey at
319-356-5170 or tim-wilkey@iowa-city.org.