Confirmed: Harmful Algae Found On Black Lake

Two Whidbey Island lakes are experiencing dangerously toxic blue-green algae blooms, the Washington State Deptartment of Ecology said in a prepared release this week. The algae, in high concentrations, can cause health problems such as skin and eye irritation and intestinal illnesses. The algae often looks like spilled green paint.

Steps should be taken to avoid any skin contact or pet contact with the discolored or scummy water – which could include shades of green, blue-green, yellow, brown or red.

The health department and water treatment plant is urging residents to use caution when swimming, boating, fishing, or doing other recreational water activities in the Ohio River this weekend.

Earley Town Council have installed water pumps in an attempt to pump extra oxygen into the water to remove the algae, but their efforts have yet to be successful.

County health officials are advising visitors to avoid drinking river water or cooking with it. Additionally, visitors should supervise young children near the water, as well pets. Although some blue-green algae have the ability to produce toxins, the Health Services Department said most do not. Most species are buoyant and will float to the surface, where they form scum layers or floating mats. Some factors that can contribute to algae blooms include sunlight; low-water or low-flow conditions; calm water;warmer temperatures; and excess nutrients (phosphorus or nitrogen).