ELEPHANT BUTTE, N.M. (KRQE) – It's a concern a lot of people might not think about when visiting their favorite vacation spot, toxic algae, harmful to humans, and possibly deadly for animals. At Elephant Butte Lake, tourists and residents are concerned about harmful algal blooms. Bernalillo County asks state for $4.3M for Mesa Del Sol sports fields The algae naturally grows in lakes, ponds, and slow-moving streams. HAB can cause skin irritation and stomach problems in humans and for dogs, it can be deadly. According to the New Mexico Environment Department, there have been several dog deaths caused by HAB. State park officials are beginning to test algae blooms at the lake to see if they are dangerous. They are asking people to avoid the area if they see the bluish-green algae.