CONTACT:  Renae Miller, Public Information Supervisor – Public Health & Social Services, 360-463-0362 or renae.miller@co.thurston.wa.us 

Dr. Jen Freiheit, Interim Director, Thurston County Public Health and Social Services

Toxic levels are above the threshold for health concern. 

OLYMPIA – Thurston County Public Health and Social Services is reporting an algae danger alert for Lake Lawrence and toxic algae bloom for Pattison Lake. 

Lab results taken from Lake Lawrence on 10/22/2024 detected Microcystins toxin levels at 2,361 ug/L, which exceeds the state recreational guidelines for a DANGER warning which is 2,000ug/L. Anatoxins were not detected. Warning signs will be posted at the Lake Lawrence boat launch and community park.

Lab results taken from Pattison Lake on 10/22/2024 detected Microcystins toxin levels at 23 ug/L, which is ABOVE the state recreation guideline of 8ug/L. Anatoxins were not detected.

Microcystins are a liver toxin and possible human carcinogen and can also cause illness in livestock and pets that drink affected water. Staff will continue to collect weekly samples until they receive two consecutive weeks of samples with microcystin levels below state recreational guidelines. Even if the lake is visibly clear of algae, toxins may still be present.  

When an algae bloom is present, health officials recommend taking extra precautions to avoid the health risks posed by potential toxins.

• Do not drink the lake water.
• Avoid contact with water containing algae.
• Avoid swimming, wading, windsurfing, and water-skiing in waterbodies where algae blooms are present.
• Keep pets and livestock away from where algae blooms are present.
• Do not eat fish that come from the lake during an algae bloom.
• Avoid areas of scum when boating. 

For more information about toxic algae blooms and health risks, and to see all Thurston County Algae Alerts visit: www.thurstoncountywa.gov/outdoor-water-recreation

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