Lake County Gazette

Toxic algae blooms in Illinois have become a growing concern as some contain toxins that are harmful.

Last year, toxic algae blooms became a concern for the Metro East area and Starved Rock. In June of 2021, the surface of the Illinois River was streaked with neon green as higher  temperatures promote the growth of these blooms. One of many bloom samples throughout the year contained levels of a potent toxin more than 30 times above the advised state recreational standard.

One state Senate candidate, Adam Solano, released a statement expressing his concern for the preservation of natural resources in his district while referencing the toxic algae blooms as an issue that requires proper attention and solutions.

"Lake County is a beautiful place to live, start a business and raise a family – just like I did – and we have work to do to protect this beautiful area and make sure the land lakes and waterways remain open and clean," Solano said. "A rise of toxic algae blooms has put our natural resources  at risk. Our area needs leadership to obtain state and federal grants so we can help communities like Third Lake, Gages Lake and Grayslake. As your state senator, I will be a leading voice for Lake County to make sure our natural resources remain healthy, safe and clean."

Algae blooms derive from nutrients such as nitrogen or phosphorus, that can come from fertilizer runoff or other forms of nutrient pollution, entering aquatic systems, Suburban Chicagoland reported. These algae blooms affect entire ecosystems.

Those who are most at risk to the health effects attributable to algal toxins are young children, the elderly and people with compromised immune systems, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency said. Symptoms may include, rashes, hives, diarrhea, vomiting, coughing or wheezing. Those with extended exposure to blue-green algae may experience effects of the liver and nervous  system.

Solano is a native to Lake County and has lived in Grayslake since 1996, according to his campaign biography. He began his career in financial services in 1993 and has continuously served in local professional groups providing his knowledge to peers in the same profession and mentoring up-and-comers.