Tainter Lake in Dunn County is experiencing algae-blooms which cause an incredible stench to hang heavy on the air that could hold its own in a stinking contest with a baby’s diaper. I haven’t been there, but according to what I have read, the problem goes way beyond the inconvenience it causes to residents of the area (“We can’t even go out into our back yard,” says Carol Hake) It poses a serious health problem as well. Residents of the lake have been complaining of eye, nose, and throat irritation, diarrhea and coughing. The lake’s toxic state has even been linked to the death of a dog in Menomonie.

Two representatives from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services toxicology team came from Madison to take air samples and they found elevated levels of ammonia. This is a cause of concern and further research is necessary. Unfortunately, there is yet to be any improvement to the situation. This is one of those times that as citizens, we need to stand up and be vocal. It’s up to you to make a big stink large enough to reach the attention of those in Madison. Call your representative! We need their help if we are going to clean up this mess.