Blue-green algae aren't actually algae at all. They are a type of bacteria called Cyanobacteria. Cyanobacteria grow rapidly in fresh water when there is enough sunlight, warm temperatures, and nutrients in the water. When blue-green algae grows rapidly it is called a bloom. Blue-green algae blooms are most often seen along shores and in coves or pockets.
Many lakes in Washington State have blue-green algae blooms. It is common for Grant County waters to have algae blooms in the summer and fall. Not all blue-green algae blooms are toxic, however, there are types of blue-green algae that produce toxins (or poisons) that can cause serious illness in people, pets, and livestock.
The toxins, called cyanotoxins, produced by blue-green algae are microcystins, anatoxins, and saxotoxins. When toxin levels exceed the recreational guidelines set by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH), it's not safe to have contact with the water. People should stay out of the water, including wading and water recreation such as swimming or water skiing. Pet owners should not allow their pets to play in or drink water where blue-green algae are present as these toxins can kill pets.
Current Advisories for Grant County
There are no current advisories in Grant County.
Please click here to see the latest toxin testing results.
Volunteer to Monitor With CSCUM
Cyanobacteria Surveillance by Citizens, Users, and Managers (CSCUM) is a volunteer group that coordinates with GCHD to check for cyanobacteria blooms at predetermined observation points. Volunteers are provided training from GCHD and are given all the materials they need to take samples when they are needed. Volunteers must be able to upload photos digitally using an app. The data collected gets uploaded to the Grant County Healthy Lakes Tracker so anyone can see lake conditions and any posted advisories. If you'd like more information, you can call the office at 509-766-7960 or send an email to us. If you're ready to volunteer, please fill out the form:
