Updated December 2, 2016
Warning continues for Lake Wilderness due a Cyanobacteria bloom that is producing cyanotoxins. Toxicity results from samples taken on September 19th, September 26th, October 3rd, October 10th, and October 17th, indicated the presence of toxins at levels above the Washington State recreational guidelines and warnings were issued and posted. However, test results from sampling on October 24th and November 1st, November 14th and November 28th indicate the toxicity levels continue to fall and are now well below the recreational guideline.
Although toxin levels were very low from the November 28th sampling event, the bloom scums are persistent and can change in toxicity at any time, therefore the warning will remain in effect. Further sampling will be underway in December. Cyanobacteria bloom toxins can threaten the health of people and pets if contacted or ingested. Contact with visible scum formations should always be avoided. Young children and pets are particularly at risk.
Young children playing at the shoreline may contact the scum or get it in their mouths and pets may drink it or lick it off their fur. Common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and eye or skin irritation. If water with visible scum is contacted or ingested, notify your doctor or veterinary immediately and follow their instructions. Contact Diana at 425-413-8800 or diana.pistoll@maplevalleywa.gov or to learn more about blooms and view bloom photos visit https://www.nwtoxicalgae.org/.
