Health officials issue alert for toxic algae in Whitman County

Officials with Whitman County Public Health are monitoring a toxic algae bloom on the Snake River upstream from Lower Granite Dam and have issued a public health alert.

The blue-green algae bloom extends roughly from Nisqually John Landing to Wawawai County Park. A sample taken Sept. 11 tested positive for the presence of toxins that can harm humans and wildlife. The health department advises people to not drink, swim or boat in areas with a visible algae bloom. Those who do come in contact with the algae or discolored and smelly water are advised to wash with soap and water.

Pets and livestock should be kept away from and not allowed to drink the water. Dishes should not be washed with the water and boiling water will not remove the toxins, according to a news release from the health department.

Maddy Lucas, a health inspector for Whitman County, said the algal bloom is being tested weekly and the health alert will be lifted after two consecutive tests show toxins are no longer above state standards. That could happen as soon as Thursday or today.

However, she said it is likely that even after toxins are no longer at harmful levels, the visible bloom will persist.

“Not every algal bloom, no matter how ugly it looks, does produce toxins,” she said.

More information about toxic algal blooms is available at nwtoxicalgae.org.

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