WHITMAN COUNTY, Wash. — If you’re planning to spend time near the Snake River this summer, you’ll need to watch out for contaminated water.
On August 21, a water sample taken from the Snake River near Nisqually John Landing, about 30 miles south of Pullman, tested positive for toxic algae.
The test revealed the presence of microcystins in the algae, a type of liver toxin.
Whitman County Public Health issued a Health Advisory and said the harmful algae bloom is intermittently present in the Snake River between Nisqually John Landing and Little Goose Dam.
WCPH said dangerous algae blooms can also migrate throughout the river as they follow the currents.
People near the river should avoid areas of water with visible scum on the surface of the water. The scum is often described as looking like spilled paint on top of the water and blue-green in color, although it can also appear brown or pink.
Harmful algae can bloom year-round, but is most often found in late summer and early fall.
“Warm water and air temperatures, sunny weather, still water conditions and high levels of nutrients contribute to harmful algae blooms,” WCPH said.
People should follow the following precautions:
– Do not drink, swim, wade, use personal watercraft, water ski, or boat in waters where there is a visible bloom.
– Wash your skin and clothing with soap and water if you have contact with algae or discolored or smelly water.
– Keep pets away from the area. Waters where there are harmful algae blooms are not safe for animals. Pets and livestock should have a different source of water when algae blooms are present.
– Do not cook or clean dishes with water contaminated by algae blooms. Boiling the water will NOT eliminate the toxins.
– Do not eat shellfish in waters with algae blooms.
WCPH said if you or your pet is feeling sick after being in water, contact your doctor or veterinarian.
For more information, visit www.whitmancountypublichealth.org.
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