PYRAMID LAKE, (Thursday, July 28, 2016)—Blue-Green Algal Bloom Declining in Pyramid Lake;
Swimming Now Allowed, but Public Is Urged To Use Caution

SACRAMENTO – The cyanobacteria (blue-green) algal bloom that was first detected in Pyramid Lake in late June is subsiding, according to the Department of Water Resources (DWR). Recent sampling for microcystin toxins in the water showed that levels have declined, and there are no recreational restrictions at the lake at this time. However, the public is advised to use caution as cyanobacteria may still be present in the lake. Because algal blooms can form and die off fairly rapidly, DWR continues to test the water and will update this advisory if conditions change.

Based on current testing results, the following precautions from the Voluntary Statewide Guidance for Blue-Green Algae Blooms are in effect:
·         Do not swim or wade near algae or scum.
·         Keep children away from algae in the water or on the shore.
·         Do not drink lake water or use it for cooking.
·         Do not let pets go into or drink the water, or eat scum on the shoreline.
·         For fish caught here, throw away guts and clean fillets with tap water or bottled water before cooking.
·         Do not eat shellfish from these waters.

Always warn young children not to swallow any lake water, whether or not you see signs of algae. If you or your pet become sick after going in the water, contact your doctor or veterinarian.

Sunlight, warm temperatures, nutrients in the water and calm conditions can contribute to algal blooms, which are considered to be harmful if they produce toxins that can affect people and pets when they contact the affected water.

People can be exposed to the toxins when they accidently ingest water while swimming or waterskiing. The toxins can also contact the skin during swimming or be inhaled if they become aerosolized, such as during waterskiing or jet skiing.

Exposure to high concentrations of these toxins can cause skin rashes, eye, nose, mouth or throat irritation, headache and gastrointestinal upset. Dogs can also become ill if they ingest the water or lick their fur after contacting the affected water.

Additional information on harmful algal blooms can be found on the State Water Resources Control Board website: http://www.mywaterquality.ca.gov/monitoring_council/cyanohab_network/index.html.

This is part of the July 22, 2016 online edition of The Mountain Enterprise.

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