Toxic algae advisory for Pattison Lake lifted

The toxic algae advisory for Pattison Lake has been lifted.

The Thurston County Public Health department said in a news release that samples taken May 11 and 24 were below the advisory limit, so restrictions on lake use have been lifted.

However, residents are asked to call if they see algae scum on the shoreline, and to collect samples in a clean jar. The samples should be refrigerated until picked up or delivered to the health department.

Because it is unknown when an algae bloom becomes toxic, people are advised to avoid contact with lake water that has visible algae or algae scum on the surface. Pets and children should be kept out of the water. When fishing, it is safest to catch-and-release any fish caught during a toxic algae bloom, according to the health department.

For updates or information, call 360-867-2645.

This story was originally published June 2, 2016 at 2:44 PM with the headline "Toxic algae advisory for Pattison Lake lifted."