Blue-Green Algae

Jefferson County Public Health is visually monitoring Lake Billy Chinook during the summer of 2019. In the past, algae blooms have arisen and the water has been tested for cyanobacteria algae blooms. Due to these past blooms, the Oregon Health Authority, Public Health Division, is issuing pre-cautionary reminders on July 9th, August 13th, and September 10th. These are cautionary advisories to let the public know that the lake may bloom cyanobacteria.

Lake Billy Chinook appears green in nature year-round, but mostly during the summer months. Why? By mid-summer, many waterbodies turn green due to the growth of small microscopic plants in the water called algae. Algae grow in all bodies of water when light and nutrients levels are sufficient. In many lakes, algae abundance is determined by the amount of phosphorus dissolved in the water.

Is the water safe to recreate in? Yes. You’re not there to drink the lake water… you’re there to recreate. As a precaution, stay clear of any water that looks foamy, scummy, and thick like paint, pea-green, blue-green or brownish red. Rinsing yourself off or showering after being in the water is also advised.

It is best to keep your pets out of the foamy, pea-green water as well. If your dog goes into the water, don’t let your pet lick its fur and wash your pet with clean water as soon as possible. If your dog has symptoms such as drooling, weakness, vomiting, staggering and convulsions after being in bloom-affected water, call your veterinarian immediately.

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