Results from water samples taken from Lacamas Lake on Monday, July 1 revealed cyanotoxins above the threshold levels recommended by the Washington Department of Health
VANCOUVER – Clark County Public Health has issued a warning advisory at Lacamas Lake due to elevated levels of cyanotoxins from harmful algae.
Results from water samples taken from Lacamas Lake on Monday, July 1 revealed cyanotoxins above the threshold levels recommended by the Washington Department of Health. Warning signs are being placed at public access points at the lake.
Cyanotoxins can be harmful to people, especially young children, and deadly for small pets that drink the water. While the warning advisory is in place, health officials recommend:
- No swimming or water skiing.
- No water contact for animals.
- Avoiding areas of scum when using motorized boats, paddle boarding, kayaking or canoeing.
- No drinking lake water.
- Cleaning fish well and discarding organs.
Public Health will continue to monitor Lacamas Lake and, while a bloom is present, take weekly water samples to test toxin levels. Signs will be updated as conditions change.
Harmful algal blooms can pose a significant health risk if the cyanobacteria or toxins are ingested, inhaled or contact skin. Inhaled bacteria or toxins could cause wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath. Skin contact could lead to rash, itching, blisters and eye irritation.
If water with cyanotoxins is accidentally swallowed, symptoms could include abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, numbness of the lips, tingling in fingers and toes, and dizziness.
Additional information about harmful algal blooms and current advisories are posted on the Public Health website. To report algal blooms in other bodies of water, visit the Public Health website.
Information provided by Clark Co. WA Communications.
Also read:
- Bill critics say undermines parents’ bill of rights initiative gets a public hearing
House Bill 1296, which critics argue undermines Initiative 2081, the parents’ bill of rights, recently had a public hearing before the Washington State Legislature. - Opinion: House Bill 1334 would allow municipalities to increase property taxes significantly
Mark Harmsworth of the Washington Policy Center argues that House Bill 1334 could lead to significant property tax increases by changing inflation calculations. - Explore majors and careers with WSU VancouverWSU Vancouver invites prospective students to explore majors and careers at Classroom to Career events, offering insights from faculty, students, and alumni.
- County seeks public comment on notice of intent to request release of funds for Housing Preservation ProgramClark County seeks public input on a funding request for the Housing Preservation Program, which helps low-income homeowners make essential repairs.
- Letter: ‘Quality schools are made through our community partnerships’Vancouver resident Linda Campbell urges community support for Evergreen School District levies, highlighting their role in funding essential student programs and resources.
- 🗳️ CCT Weekly Poll: Your Thoughts on Trump’s Gender Clarity PolicyClark County Today’s weekly poll asks for your opinion on President Trump’s gender clarity policy, which has sparked debate over fairness and transgender participation in sports.
- Save Vancouver Streets files suit to get its petition on the ballotSave Vancouver Streets files suit against the city of Vancouver, seeking a court order to place its initiative on the next general election ballot.
