Windsor Lake has been a great spot for the summer so far. Whether it's with the live music and mini festival on Thursday nights, bringing the kayak out there, renting one of the big giant wheel boats or simply cooling off in the water, there's something for everyone. That has changed after Friday, when toxic levels of blue green algae was detected.

According to the Town of Windsor, the things that we love to do at the lake have been put on hold until further notice, and that includes the upcoming Pack the Park and Lake on July 29 to celebrate Parks and Recreation Month.

Due to the algae detection, the event has been changed to just “Pack the Park” and will include a swimming portion at a town pool on July 28.

You can still use the trail around Windsor Lake, the volleyball court, and catch and release fishing is also still a go, as is using  the playground. Boardwalk Park Museum and the park will also in general remain open to the public. Basically, you can enjoy pretty much everything at Windsor Lake Park....except for the water.

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So if you're like me and wondering what blue-green algae is and why it's such a big deal, know that it can spread rapidly and can be a result of hot weather, stagnant water and stormwater runoff. This algae is fairly common in Colorado can produce toxins that can harm people and be fatal to dogs and other animals.

If you've come in contact with infected water, officials recommend you shower immediately and watch out for symptoms which include rash, an upset stomach, fever, headache, sore throat, and muscle and joint pain.

In dogs or other animals, symptoms can present as vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal swelling, stumbling, seizures, disorientation or difficulty breathing, according to CDPHE.

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