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Public Health issues toxic algae warnings at Camas lakes

Warnings in place at Lacamas, Round lakes due to elevated cyanotoxin levels

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A sign posted outside Lacamas Lake Lodge in Camas, near the shores of Lacamas Lake, Monday, July 15, 2024, warns visitors that toxic algae has been found in the lake and that people who plan to recreate in or near the lake should take precautions to avoid the harmful algal bloom. (Kelly Moyer/Post-Record)

Clark County Public Health has issued a warning advisory at Lacamas and Round lakes in Camas due to elevated levels of cyanotoxins from harmful algae. 

The County issued the Lacamas Lake warning Wednesday, Aug. 28. Results from water samples taken from Round Lake on Monday, Aug. 12, revealed cyanotoxins above the threshold levels recommended by the Washington Department of Health, and warning signs have been placed at public access points at both lakes. 

Cyanotoxins can be harmful to people, especially young children, and deadly for small pets that drink the water. While the warning advisory is in place, Public Health recommends:

  • No swimming or water skiing.
  • No water contact for animals.
  • Avoiding areas of scum when using motorized boats, paddle boarding, kayaking or canoeing.
  • No drinking lake water.
  • Cleaning fish well and discarding organs.

The warning advisory at Lacamas Lake in Camas remains in place. Results from water samples taken from Lacamas Lake on Monday, Aug. 12, indicate toxin levels are decreasing. If toxin levels continue to decrease, the warning advisory will be lifted. 

Public Health removed the advisory at Vancouver Lake on Aug. 9, and water samples taken from Vancouver Lake on Monday, Aug. 12 indicate toxin levels remain below thresholds. However, algal blooms remain in several areas of the lake, including the swim beach. As long as blooms of harmful algae are present, toxin levels could increase as conditions at the lake change.

Public Health will continue to monitor all three lakes and take weekly water samples to test toxin levels. Signs will be updated as conditions change.

Harmful algal blooms can pose a significant health risk if the cyanobacteria or toxins are ingested, inhaled or contact skin. Inhaled bacteria or toxins could cause wheezing, coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath. Skin contact could lead to rash, itching, blisters and eye irritation. 

If water with cyanotoxins is accidentally swallowed, symptoms could include abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, numbness of the lips, tingling in fingers and toes, and dizziness.

Additional information about harmful algal blooms and current advisories are posted online at clark.wa.gov/public-health/public-beaches.

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A sign posted near Lacamas Lake in Camas warns visitors of the presence of a toxic algal bloom on Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024. (Kelly Moyer/Post-Record) Toxic algae warnings posted at Lacamas and Round lakes
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