Blue-green algae at Lacamas, Round lakes

CAMAS — Clark County Public Health has issued advisories for Lacamas Lake and Round Lake due to blooms of cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae.

Blue-green algae can pose a significant health risk if the cyanobacteria or toxins are ingested, inhaled or come into contact with skin. Public Health is advising people to avoid direct contact with all water in both lakes, according to a news release.

Public Health collected water samples from each lake; results are expected next week, according to the news release. The warning will be re-evaluated once water samples return.

Warning signs have been posted at entry points for the lakes. The lakes will remain under advisory as long as blooms are present, but the advisory may be downgraded if the results show there are no toxins in the water. Water samples will be collected again next week.

Health officials recommend:

• no swimming, water skiing, paddle boarding, kayaking or canoeing

• no drinking lake water

• no water contact for animals

• avoid areas of scum when using motorized boats

Camas Heritage Park and Lacamas Regional Park have closed restrooms, shelters and other facilities due to the statewide stay-at-home order. Water in park restrooms and drinking fountains is safe to drink. Heritage Trail and walking paths remain open for use, as long as social distancing is maintained.

Additional information and current advisories are posted on the Public Health public beach website. To report algae blooms in other bodies of water, visit the Public Health website.