Wake Forest closes pond and hiking trail in Joyner Park after sewer leak

WAKE FOREST, N.C. (WTVD) – Joyner Park Pond and the adjacent hiking trail were closed Friday due to a sewage leak, the city of Wake Forest said.

A city official said the leak contaminated the pond and was likely responsible for the red algae.

The pond and hiking trail are closed until further notice.

The Wake Forest Parks, Recreation, The & Cultural Resources Department said red algae blooms can produce toxins that can make people and pets sick.

If you, your child or your dog come into contact with the water or an algae bloom, rinse immediately.

Call your veterinarian immediately if your dog has been exposed to an algal bloom and is exhibiting symptoms such as vomiting, staggering, drooling, or convulsions. These symptoms appear soon after exposure.

Algal blooms can last for weeks or disappear quickly. The city administration is monitoring the situation closely.

Wake Forest officials are consulting with Raleigh Water and the NC Department of Environmental Quality to determine next steps.