Thurston County Public Health and Social Services Environmental Health Division staff have received lab results for the follow-up algae sample taken at Offutt Lake on Nov. 18, a news release stated.
Microcystin is officially below the method detection limit, which is below state recreational guidelines of 8.0 micrograms per liter. No notable presence of cyanotoxins were reported.
This is the second consecutive sample with results below the advisory levels following an algal bloom with toxin levels above. The Toxic Algae Advisory is lifted and signs posted by Thurston County staff will be removed as soon as staff are able, the release stated.
When an algae bloom is present or suspected, Thurston County Public Health and Social Services recommends extra precautions be taken to avoid the health risks posed by potential toxins:
• Do not drink the lake water.
• Avoid contact with water containing algae. Do not swim or water ski in areas with algae.
• Keep pets and livestock away from areas where algae blooms are present.
• When fishing, use only catch-and-release of any fish caught during an algae bloom.
• Do not eat fish that come from the lake during an algae bloom.
• Avoid areas of scum when boating.
For more information, visit www.nwtoxicalgae.org or call 360-867-2626.
