CAMBRIDGE, Idaho (KBOI) — The Southwest District Health Department has issued a health advisory for Brownlee Reservoir near the Idaho-Oregon border.
The health district said Friday that recent samples taken from the reservoir show concentrations of bacteria-producing blue-green algae. The advisory is specifically near mile markers 317 and 321 near Morgan Creek.
Blue-green algae occurs naturally, but under some conditions the algae can release toxins into the water that harmful to people and animals.
Tips from Southwest District Health and Idaho Power share these tips where blue-green algae blooms are known to be present.
- Humans, pets, and livestock should not drink the reservoir water.
- Humans and animals should stay out of the reservoir. Swimming, wading, or other activities with full body contact of reservoir water should be avoided.
- Fish should be cleaned and rinsed with clean water. Only the fillet portion should be consumed. All other parts should be discarded.
- Pets and livestock are vulnerable to blue-green algae and should stay out of water where blooms are visible. Pets and livestock can be exposed to blue-green algae through drinking, swimming, or self-grooming by licking their wet coat or paws. A reaction will likely require immediate veterinary attention.
- Do not allow pets to eat dried algae.
- If reservoir water contacts skin or pet fur, wash with clean potable water as soon as possible.
- Areas of visible algae accumulation should be avoided.
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