An early bloom of cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, has led to high levels of the potent nerve toxin anatoxin-A in Anderson Lake.
A water sample taken on April 13 revealed a toxin …
This item is available in full to subscribers.
We have recently launched a new and improved website. To continue reading, you will need to either log into your subscriber account, or purchase a new subscription.
If you had an active account on our previous website, then you have an account here. Simply reset your password to regain access to your account.
If you did not have an account on our previous website, but are a current print subscriber, click here to set up your website account.
Otherwise, click here to view your options for subscribing.
* Having trouble? Call our circulation department at 360-385-2900, or email our support.
Please log in to continue |
|
An early bloom of cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, has led to high levels of the potent nerve toxin anatoxin-A in Anderson Lake.
A water sample taken on April 13 revealed a toxin concentration of 14.8 micrograms per liter, which is above the Washington state criteria of 1 microgram per liter.
Washington State Parks staff have posted “Danger – Lake Closed” signs at access points to the park, alerting visitors of the potential hazards.
Jefferson County Public Health recommends individuals follow Gov. Jay Inslee’s “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order, and all state parks remain closed through at least May 4, including Anderson Lake State Park.
Anderson Lake was not stocked with trout by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife this year, and recreational fishing is closed.
Jefferson County Public Health is in the process of completing an Anderson Lake Management Plan to identify the underlying cause of the recurring highly toxic cyanobacteria blooms, and determine potential strategies for mitigation.
This project is funded in part through a grant from the Washington State Department of Ecology.
To check the status of Jefferson County Lakes and learn more about toxic cyanobacteria monitoring, consult the Jefferson County Public Health website at www.jeffersoncountypublichealth.org/723/Lake-Status or call 360-385-9444.