The city of Camas is asking people to use caution at Lacamas Lake after a possible algae bloom was spotted near Heritage Park. Signs have been posted warning people about the potential danger.
People should avoid swimming, boating or water skiing in areas of scum, drinking lake water or letting animals come in contact with scum. Lake fish should be cleaned well, and their organs discarded.
Blue-green algae was found in the lake in June. The lake tested at 2 micrograms per liter, leaving the lake under caution at the time. The state health department has a threshold of 6 micrograms per liter for cyanotoxins.
There is a cleanup at the lake scheduled for 9 a.m. Saturday. Currently, it appears the city will continue on with the planned event. Volunteers are encouraged to wear protective equipment such as rubber boots and gloves. They are also asked to avoid areas where scum may be present. The city will be providing disposable gloves for volunteers.
For more information, contact Denis Ryan, Public Works operations supervisor for the city, at dryan@cityofcamas.us or at 360-817-7983.
