Results from water samples taken from Round Lake on Monday (Aug. 12) revealed cyanotoxins above the threshold levels recommended by the Washington Department of Health
VANCOUVER – Clark County Public Health has issued a warning advisory at Round Lake in Camas due to elevated levels of cyanotoxins from harmful algae.
Results from water samples taken from Round Lake on Monday (Aug. 12) 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, Public Health recommends:
- 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.
The warning advisory at Lacamas Lake in Camas remains in place. Results from water samples taken from Lacamas Lake on Monday, Aug. 12 indicate toxin levels are decreasing. If toxin levels continue to decrease, the warning advisory will be lifted.
Public Health removed the advisory at Vancouver Lake on Aug. 9, and water samples taken from Vancouver Lake on Monday, Aug. 12 indicate toxin levels remain below thresholds. However, algal blooms remain in several areas of the lake, including the swim beach. As long as blooms of harmful algae are present, toxin levels could increase as conditions at the lake change.
Public Health will continue to monitor all three lakes and 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.
Information provided by Clark Co. WA Communications.
Also read:
- Budget leader says funding for programs and services is safe, concern is demand for billions in new spending
Sen. Lynda Wilson highlights safe funding for services despite looming demands for billions in new spending. - After evading repeal, will Washington expand its capital gains tax to lower incomes?
One member of a prominent Washington think tank suspects lawmakers are considering modifying the capital gains tax to generate more revenue for state coffers Brett DavisThe Center Square Washington A general income tax in Washington state appears to be off the table for now, even as voters retained the state’s capital gains tax by failing … - Opinion: New audit offers another reason lawmakers should leave the state’s paid-leave program behindElizabeth New (Hovde) critiques Washington’s Paid Family and Medical Leave program, highlighting audit findings of double-dipping and program inefficiencies.
- Opinion: WA turns redder, despite faulty media reports that said otherwiseWAGOP highlights gains in Washington’s November 2024 election, challenging claims the state turned “bluer.”
- Vancouver City Council to host community forum on Nov. 25Vancouver City Council invites community members to share questions and ideas at a public forum on Nov. 25 at Evergreen Public Schools.
- Vancouver Public Schools to run Technology, Safety, and Capital Projects Levy on February ballotVancouver Public Schools Board approves a Technology, Safety, and Capital Projects Levy for the February 2025 ballot to support long-term needs.
- Bridge, trail reopen at Moulton Falls Regional ParkMoulton Falls Regional Park reopens its iconic wood bridge and trail after restoration work to ensure structural integrity and weather protection.
