Agencies warn against blue-green algae

Due to potential health risks, several local, tribal, federal and state agencies are urging swimmers, boaters and recreational users to avoid contact with the blue-green algae now flowing from PacifiCorp hydropower reservoirs into the main stem of the Klamath River in Northern California.

Due to potential health risks, several local, tribal, federal and state agencies are urging swimmers, boaters and recreational users to avoid contact with the blue-green algae now blooming on the main stem of the Klamath River in Northern California.

The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Environmental Health; Del Norte County Division of Environmental Health; the Karuk and Yurok tribes; several California agencies, including the North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board, State Water Resources Control Board, the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment, and the California Department of Public Health; and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency urge nearby residents and recreational users of the Klamath River to use caution or avoid contact with water with visible blooms until further notice.

“A blue-green algae bloom can present a health hazard for those swimming or playing in the river, especially children and pets. We recommend that people stay out of the water where significant algae are present, and to keep their dogs out of these areas at this time,” said Brian Cox, director of the Humboldt County Division of Environmental Health in a news release

The algal blooms look like green, blue-green, white or brown foam, scum or mats floating on the water. Recreational exposure to toxic blue-green algae can cause eye irritation, allergic skin rash, mouth ulcers, vomiting, diarrhea, and cold- and flu-like symptoms. Accidentally drinking or swallowing large amounts of contaminated water can be extremely dangerous.