Blue-green algae warning advisory for two Walla Walla County parks
By Dan Thesman on Saturday, October 5th, 2024 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
(News release from Walla Walla County Department of Community Health)
BURBANK – The Walla Walla County Department of Community Health (WWCDCH) has issued a warning advisory at Charbonneau Park in Burbank, WA due to elevated levels of microcystin, a toxin found in cyanobacteria (or toxic/bluegreen algae).
Results from water samples taken from Charbonneau on Monday, September 30, 2024, revealed elevated levels of microcystin. These levels are above the threshold levels recommended by the Washington Department of Health.
Microcystin is a liver toxin that can pose a significant health risk if toxins are ingested, inhaled, or contact the skin. Exposure to these toxins can cause serious illness in humans, particularly children, and death for pets that are exposed. While the warning advisory is in place, officials recommend taking the following precautions:
Do not swim or water ski.
Do not drink the water.
Keep pets and livestock away from the water.
Clean fish well and discard guts.
Avoid areas of scum when boating.
When in doubt, stay out. Avoid water that is discolored, smells bad, or has foam, scum, or mats. Dead animals on or hear the shoreline can also indicate a presence of toxic algae.
Samples taken at Hood Park – revealed the presence of Anatoxin A below action levels for recreational bodies of water, but conditions are subject to change.
If you believe you or your pet may have been exposed to water containing an algal bloom, rinse off with fresh water immediately. Monitor for symptoms and seek medical attention immediately.
Public Health officials will continue to monitor both locations weekly to test toxin levels. Information and signs will be updated as conditions change.
For additional information, please visit the Washington Department of Health Cyanobacterial Toxins website at Cyanobacteria Technical Information | Washington State Department of Health
Photo of Charbonneau Park via U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Walla Walla District
