Results from water samples taken from Lacamas Lake on Monday, June 2 revealed toxin levels 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, June 2 revealed toxin levels 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, Public Health recommends:
- No swimming.
- 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 blooms are present, take weekly water samples to test toxin levels. Signs will be updated as conditions change.
Public Health is also monitoring Round Lake in Camas and Vancouver Lake for algae blooms. Small algae blooms were present at Round Lake on Monday, but results from water samples indicate toxin levels were low. And algae were dispersed in the water at Vancouver Lake on Monday, but a bloom has not developed.
Harmful algal blooms can develop and toxin levels can change as conditions at the lakes change. Public Health encourages people swimming and recreating in the lake to watch for floating scum and avoid direct contact with water in those areas.
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:
- Letter: ‘One year later, a withheld text message points to perjury’
Clark County resident Rob Anderson argues a previously undisclosed text message tied to a C-TRAN board dispute raises questions about sworn statements and public meeting rules. - Opinion: It’s not just the increased taxes that are driving businesses away
Mark Harmsworth of the Washington Policy Center argues taxes, workforce challenges and economic uncertainty are driving businesses to relocate outside Washington. - Opinion: There is no such thing as a ‘free’ lunch, and an income tax isn’t more palatable because it offers one
Elizabeth New of the Washington Policy Center argues the proposed Washington income tax and universal school meals policy reflect a broader state spending problem - Battle Ground the site of Busy Bee Craft Fair March 21
Battle Ground will host the Busy Bee Craft Fair on March 21, bringing dozens of local artisans and crafters together for a free community event at the Battle Ground Event Center. - State of the City: Vancouver mayor promotes arts and culture in her annual address
Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle highlighted arts initiatives, public safety investments and city development projects during her annual State of the City address. - Clark College to present Choral Concerts
Clark College choirs will perform two winter concerts in Vancouver this week, featuring the Treble Ensemble, Chorale and Concert Choir under the direction of Dr. Jacob Funk. - VIDEO: WA House pulls an all-nighter as income tax debate continues
Washington House lawmakers debated Senate Bill 6346 through the night as Republicans proposed amendments and raised concerns about economic impacts and constitutional questions.
wpDiscuz
