This is a reminder that typical Labor Day weekend activities on or near the waterways can bring humans and animals into contact with blue-green algae. Warm temperatures can create the right conditions for blue-green algae to rapidly build-up or bloom on the surface of reservoirs, rivers, creeks, lagoons, lakes and ponds.

San Joaquin County announced at its regular meeting on August 13 that it has secured initial state funding to set in motion plans to begin transforming Boggs Tract into a more sustainable, connected community. The awarding of the $286,000 Caltrans grant coupled with the addition of $37,000 in County funds is welcome news for residents looking forward to making the proposed Boggs Tract Sustainable Community Plan a reality.

“Current contract negotiations have not led to a unanimous agreement, and in spite of 25 bargaining sessions over the past four and a half years, the County and the DSA are now in mediation,” noted San Joaquin County Administrator, Monica Nino.

Warm temperatures are here and when conditions are right, blue-green algae can rapidly build-up or bloom on the surface of reservoirs, rivers, creeks, lagoons, lakes and ponds. Environmental Health and Public Health officials are urging swimmers, boaters, and recreational water users to avoid contact with blue-green algae (BGA), also known as cyanobacteria.

San Joaquin County recently filed a lawsuit in the San Joaquin County Superior Court requiring the Department of Water Resources (DWR) to abide by local drilling permit requirements to protect wildlife and water quality in accordance with California state law.