Duck hunters hoping to take advantage of opening weekend this Saturday, October 11th, should keep in mind several safety alerts to keep themselves and their pets safe while recreating.
Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs)
As of 10/7/2025, the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection has placed a HAB Watch Advisory on the Stillwater National Wildlife Refuge at Nutgrass Lake North. Blue-green algae are naturally present in our waters, but when conditions are just right, a bloom can occur, leading to harmful algal blooms (HABs). These blooms produce toxins that are dangerous to humans and animals. Cyanobacteria produced by these blooms are highly toxic to dogs and can be fatal within minutes to hours of exposure. Hunters considering this area should watch for indicators of a harmful algal bloom, such as water that looks like paint or pea soup, a thick surface layer resembling foam or scum, or a foul or musty odor. Where these conditions are present, hunters should take precautions to keep their dogs out of the water, minimize direct contact with the water, wash with clean, potable water afterward, avoid areas of algae accumulation, and ensure dogs do not eat dried algae or drink the water.
NDOW is warning hunters to check current HAB advisories wherever they choose to hunt. If no advisory exists, hunters should always observe existing conditions and take the necessary steps to keep their dogs out of water where they have reason to believe a HAB may exist.
Below are resources to learn more about HABs and stay informed about the status of Nevada’s bodies of water.
HAB Resources:
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)
Avian Influenza is a naturally occurring virus that poses a low risk to human infection. It typically circulates in wild waterfowl populations without any signs of illness and low mortality rates. It was first confirmed in Nevada’s wild bird populations in July 2022.
Hunters are encouraged to:
• Only handle and consume birds you harvested and that appear and act healthy.
• Do not handle, consume, or bring home any birds that appear sick or were found dead.
• Wear gloves and eye protection when cleaning birds and do so in a well-ventilated area.
• Remove intestines and discard soon after harvesting, and avoid direct contact with them.
• Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling carcasses.
• Wash hands after handling game and clean equipment.
• Cook all game to an internal temperature of 165F before consuming.
• Do not let your dog come into contact with sick birds or dead birds that you have not harvested.
• Do not let your dog consume raw meat, including from waterfowl.
• If your dog becomes ill, seek veterinary care and mention that you have been hunting with your dog.
Learn more about HPAI here.