Warning signs posted for bluegreen algae

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A bloom of bluegreen algae was found by Jefferson County Public Health at Lake Leland in January, but test results did not show detectable levels of toxins. Warning signs have been posted at the boat ramp and fishing pier.

At Anderson Lake, no visual traces were left of a previous severe bloom that kept the lake closed for much of 2017, according to a press release from JCPH.

Laboratory testing showed low levels of the potent toxin anatoxin-a, the health department said. Since the toxin level of 0.2 micrograms per liter is below the Washington state recreational guideline of 1 microgram, JCPH has recommended that Anderson Lake State Park post the lake with warning signs.

A warning sign indicates that, while the lake is open, it is recommended that people avoid areas of scum, keep children and pets out of the water and clean fish well and discard the skin and guts. Washington State Parks has informed JCPH that the Anderson Lake State Park gate will be open Fridays through Sundays in winter.

A bloom appeared on Gibbs Lake on Friday, Jan. 26. JCPH will test it for toxins and for now the lake is posted with caution signs.

JCPH has monitored local lakes for bluegreen algae seasonally since 2007. The 2018 monitoring season has begun and testing results will be posted on the JCPH website at jeffersoncountypublichealth.org.