Vancouver, Wash. – Clark County Public Health is issuing a warning for Vancouver Lake after test results revealed elevated levels of cyanotoxins in the water. The elevated toxin levels were detected at the Burnt Bridge Creek inlet to the lake where Public Health identified a bloom of cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, in July.

Public Health has been monitoring the inlet, as well as the swim beach and the flushing channel near the swim beach, and regularly sampling the water to test for toxins. Blooms are currently present at all three locations.  

Results from water samples taken at the inlet on Monday revealed cyanotoxins above threshold levels recommended by Washington Department of Health. Public Health is awaiting test results from water samples taken this week at the swim beach and flushing channel.

Due to the elevated cyanotoxin levels, Public Health is upgrading its advisory for the lake from caution to warning. Blue-green algae produce toxins that can be harmful to people, especially young children, and deadly for small pets that drink the water.

Health officials recommend:

• No swimming or water skiing in the lake.
• No drinking lake water.
• No water contact for animals.
• Avoid areas of scum when boating.
• Clean fish well and discard organs.

Parks staff will post warning signs at the lake today. Public Health will continue to monitor the lake, and signs will be updated as conditions change. Additional information and current advisories are posted on the Public Health public beach website.

Vancouver Lake Regional Park remains open. Water in park restrooms and shelters is not affected by lake water and remains safe to drink.

CONTACT
Marissa Armstrong
Communications specialist
Public Health
564.397.7307; 360.518.173
marissa.armstrong@clark.wa.gov