Submitted by Thurston County
The Thurston County Health Department has confirmed there is a toxic blue-green algae bloom in Lacey’s Long Lake, making it unsafe for swimmers and pets. The most recent sample detected microcystin algae toxin levels at 21 micrograms per liter of water—15 micrograms above the state standard of six micrograms per liter for recreational water use.
In response to these findings, The City of Lacey will be closing the beach and swimming area of Long Lake until the Thurston County Health Department can confirm microcystin toxicity levels at or below six micrograms. Long Lake Park will remain open to the public during this period.
Boating on Long Lake is still permitted during the advisory, but boaters are encouraged to avoid areas that have a visible area of algae scum.
Additionally, the Health Department recommends extra precautions be taken to avoid the health risks posed by microcystin toxins.
- Do not drink water taken from the lake until laboratory tests show the water is safe.
- Avoid contact with water containing algae.
- Keep pets and livestock out of the water.
- When fishing, it is safest to catch-and-release any fish caught during a toxic algae bloom.
- Do not Jet Ski, kayak, or paddle board on the water during a toxic algae bloom.
Algae blooms during the summer months are common and the Health Department regularly tests surrounding lakes for the presence of algae and corresponding toxicity levels. Long Lake will remain closed to swimmers until microsystin levels are at or below six micrograms per liter.
You can learn more about toxic algae blooms and health risks on the Washington State Department of Health’s Blue-Green Algae website, or contact the Thurston County Health Department at 360-867-2626.
