Health officials to launch seasonal toxic algae monitoring along Columbia River

KENNEWICK — Health officials are launching a seasonal water monitoring program to test for toxins produced by harmful algae in the Columbia River, the Benton-Franklin Health District (BFHD) announced.

Water testing is scheduled to begin June 30 and will run through early November across 12 different locations in the Tri-Cities region. Unlike the highly visible green scum found in lakes, river algae typically grows on shoreline rocks and surfaces as green, brown, or reddish clumps known as benthic algae. Certain forms can produce dangerous toxins that cause severe health issues if ingested.

District officials will collect water samples twice a month, publishing the data online. Warning signs will be posted along the riverbank if toxin levels exceed safe recreational thresholds.

Dogs face the highest risk of exposure because they frequently drink river water or chew on shoreline algae. Health officials warn that exposure to anatoxin-a, a highly dangerous algal toxin, can trigger symptoms within 15 to 20 minutes.

In pets, symptoms include weakness, staggering, difficulty breathing, seizures, and death. Exposed humans may experience dizziness, numbness around the mouth, and tingling in their fingers and toes. Immediate medical or veterinary care is urged if symptoms appear.

Pet owners are advised to rinse animals with clean water after swimming, prevent them from licking their fur, and keep them away from algae clumps.

Nearby water bodies like the Yakima River are not regularly tested due to a lack of past toxins, but the public is encouraged to report visible algae anywhere in Benton and Franklin counties.

BFHD photo shows Environmental Health Technician Britton Booker taking samples

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Elkhorn Media Group