Cyanobacteria advisory lifted for Hells Canyon Reservoir and Brownlee Reservoir

By Shannon Weidemann (McKone) on Tuesday, October 12th, 2021 in Eastern/Southeast Oregon News More Top Stories

OREGON/IDAHO – (Release from Southwest District Health) Southwest District Health, in conjunction with the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), has lifted the Cyanobacteria Health Advisory issued on August 6, 2021, for Hells Canyon Reservoir and Brownlee Reservoir.

DEQ officials monitor cyanobacteria and associated toxins where harmful algal blooms (HABs) are present and have confirmed that cyanobacteria levels at Hells Canyon Reservoir and Brownlee Reservoir have returned to normal and toxin levels are below the safety threshold.

Other blooms may exist on these waterbodies that have not been reported to DEQ or the public health district. Water users should always exercise caution around water bodies with visible slime or surface scum or a foul odor. High concentrations of toxin-producing cyanobacteria may cause illness to both humans and animals. Report any concerns to DEQ at 208.373.0550.

For more information related to current recreational water quality health advisories, visit https://www.deq.idaho.gov/water-quality/surface-water/cyanobacteria-harmful-algal-blooms.