Advisory updates and other information to encourage safe recreation
July 22nd, 2022 Update
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Warning advisory remains at Lacamas Lake for algal bloom
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Public Health staff is continuing to monitor reported harmful algal blooms at Lacamas, Round, and Vancouver Lakes. Currently, a WARNING advisory is still in place for Lacamas Lake. For water contact recommendations, click on the image to the right. View past results at the Washington State Toxic Algae website.
The next E. coli sampling date for Vancouver Regional Park, Klineline Pond, and Battle Ground Lake is Monday July 25th.
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Harmful algal bloom being monitored at Vancouver Lake
There are no current advisories at Vancouver Lake, toxin results have been below recreational guidance. Results can be viewed at the Washington State Toxic Algae website. Public Health staff will continue monitoring the bloom weekly until it dissipates.
Avoid areas of algae and scum while recreating.
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Governor Inslee has declared next week July 23-29 as Paddle Safe Week. Paddle Safe Week is a public safety campaign to remind paddlers about safety habits such as wearing a life jacket and to never paddle under the influence. For more information visit the Washington State Parks website:
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Everything you need to know about Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs)
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Harmful algal blooms (or HABs) are overgrowths of bacteria. Here are some quick facts and tips to help you identify HABs and keep you safe!
- A bloom will typically look like green, blue, or brown clumps or streaks in the water
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When in doubt, stay out! If you suspect a HAB is present, avoid contact with the water and report it to Clark County Public Health
- HABs can produce toxins known as cyanotoxins that can cause serious illness and even death in adults and children, household pets, livestock, and fish/shellfish
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Children and household pets are most likely to experience more serious health effects
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Symptoms of exposure include: ear, eye, nose, skin, and throat irritation, headache, paralysis, respiratory illness, seizures, abdominal pain, diarrhea, liver and kidney damage, and vomiting
- In household pets, symptoms include: drooling, diarrhea, low energy, not eating, stumbling, tremors and vomiting
If you think you have been exposed to a HAB, shower immediately, contact your poison control center for advice, and if symptoms occur contact your doctor or vet. Visit Clark County Public Health’s HAB website for more information and infographics:
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For more resources, previous newsletters, and other information about our beach/lake monitoring, visit our website FAQ page.
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1601 E. Fourth Plain Blvd, Building 17
Vancouver, WA 98661
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