Serving Whitman County since 1877
Serving Whitman County since 1877
Sample taken Aug. 16 confirms toxins
COLFAX — Whitman County Public Health has issued a health advisory following the detection of a harmful algal bloom along the stretch of the Snake River.
This advisory was prompted by a water sample taken on Friday, Aug. 16, near Granite Point, which tested positive for microcystins, a liver toxin.
The harmful algal bloom has been identified intermittently in the Snake River stretch between Nisqually John Landing and Little Goose Dam.
Additional testing will be conducted in the coming weeks to determine the full extent of the bloom.
Residents and visitors are advised to avoid areas of the river where green scum is visible on the water’s surface.
The department notes the bloom may appear similar to spilled paint. Whitman County Public Health warns against drinking, swimming, wading, or using personal watercraft in affected waters.
They also recommend washing skin and clothing with soap and water if they come into contact with algae or discolored, smelly water.
Pets and livestock should be kept away from the contaminated water, as it poses a risk to animals as well.
The public is urged not to cook or clean dishes with water that may be contaminated by algae blooms, as boiling the water will not eliminate the toxins.
Additionally, shellfish from affected areas should not be consumed.
Algal bloom can be reported to the Washington State Department of Ecology at the Northwest Toxic Algae website.
Additionally, any fish die-offs should be reported to the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Olivia Harnack is a Journalist at the Whitman County Gazette. Olivia is enrolled at University of Idaho and is majoring in digital film studies. She serves in the United States Army National Guard and is proud to serve Whitman County.
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