Toxic algae warning issued for Columbia River near Richland

RICHLAND, Washington — Health officials are warning the public to exercise caution along the Columbia River after recent water samples revealed unsafe levels of toxic algae.

The Benton-Franklin Health District (BFHD) announced Tuesday that water and floating algae clumps collected at Howard Amon Park tested above the state recreational threshold of one microgram per liter for anatoxin-a. In response, officials are elevating signage at the park to “Warning” status until conditions improve.

Because floating algae mats can drift anywhere along the shorelines in Benton and Franklin counties, health officials advise all river users to remain vigilant.

The primary health risk comes from ingesting algae clumps. Young children and pets —particularly dogs — are the most vulnerable because they are prone to drinking river water or chewing on shoreline algae.

Infection can occur rapidly. Symptoms in both humans and animals can manifest within 15 to 20 minutes of ingestion. Exposed pets may experience weakness, staggering, difficulty breathing, seizures, or death. In humans, exposure can cause numbness around the mouth, tingling in fingers and toes, and dizziness. Anyone exhibiting symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.

Pet owners are urged to keep animals from eating floating clumps, prevent them from licking their fur after swimming, and rinse their pets with clean water immediately after river exposure.

While other local water bodies like the Yakima River are not regularly tested, officials encourage the public to report any visible algae blooms across local streams, lakes, and rivers.

Photos of benthic algae in the Columbia River taken by James Coleman, BFHD

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Elkhorn Media Group