Thurston County warns public to avoid Lake Lawrence due to toxic algae bloom
Thurston County public health staff is warning the public to avoid Lake Lawrence due to an ongoing algae bloom.
A water sample taken on Wednesday, Aug. 14, showed microcystin, a liver toxin, surpassed 10 micrograms per liter, according to a Monday news release from the county’s Public Health and Social Services department.
That result is more than the state recreation guideline of 8.0 micrograms per liter for microcystin. No anatoxins were reportedly detected in the water sample.
Lake Lawrence, located in southeast Thurston County, is the only lake with a current algae advisory.
PHSS staff intend to test a new sample each week until all toxin levels fall below regulatory guidelines for two consecutive weeks. Only then will the advisory be lifted.
Until then, the county advised the public to not drink or contact lake water. That means no swimming, wading, wind surfing or water skiing. Pets and livestock also should be kept away from the lake, according to PHSS.
Anglers ought to catch-and-release any fish that are caught during the algae bloom, PHSS says. The public should refrain from eating contaminated fish as well.
PHSS also says boaters should avoid areas of scum when out on the water.
People who contact the water can develop stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea and allergic reactions, according to PHSS.
Members of the public are advised to share this information with their friends and neighbors, the news release says.
More information on harmful algal blooms can be found on the PHSS website, www.nwtoxicalgae.org or by calling 360-867-2626.
