Dangerous algae found in Woodbury's Carver Lake

Potentially harmful blue-green algae has been found in Woodbury's Carver Lake.

Public health officials say people and pets should avoid contact with the water

"Not all blue-green algal blooms produce toxins; however, there is no way to predict if or when a bloom will produce toxins," the city said in a statement. "For this reason it is best to avoid contact and stay out of the water."

Toxic blooms of blue-green algae likely sickened at least one human and killed two dogs this summer.

While blue-green algae has been present in Minnesota since at least 1900, it's only been a matter of public focus in the past few years.

Since 2004, some 20 dogs have died from algae-related illness, and many people have been sickened by it.

Carver Lake, which has a popular suburban beach, was the site of a boy's drowning last month.