Skip to main content

Thurston County, Washington

The content on the Thurston County website is currently provided in English. We are providing the “Translation” for approximately 10 languages. The goal of the translation is to provide visitors with limited English proficiency to access information on the website in other languages. The translations do not translate all types of documents, and it may not give you an exact translation all the time. The translations are made through an automated process, which may not result in accurate or precise translations, particularly of technical and legal terminology.
Caution Algae Sign

Toxic Algae Health Advisory in Effect for Clear Lake

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

 

OLYMPIA – Thurston County Public Health and Social Services is reporting a toxic algae bloom at Clear Lake. 

Lab results show toxin levels of Microcystins at the sample site at Clear Lake are 10 ug/L and Anatoxins below method detection limit. The state advisory level for Microcystins is 8.0 ug/L and 1.0 ug/L for Anatoxin.

Microcystins are a liver toxin and possible human carcinogen. Microcystins can also cause illness in livestock and pets that drink affected water. Staff will collect weekly samples until the algae bloom clears. Warning signs are posted at the boat launch. 

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, wind surfing 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, visit: www.thurstoncountywa.gov/departments/public-health-and-social-services/environmental-health/water/water-recreation.  

-30-

Environmental Health
Press Release
Announcements, Closures, Health

Questions and inquiries regarding News Release content should be directed to the Thurston County Public Information Officer:  

Meghan Porter

360-490-0562

Anna Rhoads

360-545-5043