Clark County Public Health monitoring levels of cyanotoxins

Clark County Public Health issued a warning advisory for Lacamas Lake on Friday due to elevated levels of cyanotoxins from harmful algae.

Results from water samples taken earlier this week revealed cyanotoxins above the threshold level 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. 

Health officials recommend:

• No swimming or water skiing
• No water contact for animals
• Avoid areas of scum when using boats, paddle boards, kayaks or canoes.
• No drinking lake water
• Clean fish well and discard organs.

Water samples will continue while blooms are present. Signs will be updated when conditions change.

Harmful blooms can pose a significant health risk if the cyanobacteria or toxins are ingested, inhaled, or contact skin. That can cause wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Skin contact could lead to rash, itchings, blisters, and eye irritation.Additional information about harmful blooms and current advisories are posted on the Clark County Public Health’s public beach website: https://clark.wa.gov/public-health/public-beaches