Panhandle Health District (PHD) in collaboration with the Idaho Department of Health & Welfare (IDHW) and Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) have lifted all harmful algal bloom public health advisories for water bodies within the five northernmost counties of Idaho. Field testing on all water bodies has concluded for the season.
The public should continue to take precaution as HABs can occur year-round.
Idaho’s active HAB advisories are listed here: https://www.gethealthy.dhw.idaho.gov/recreational-water-health-advisories.
Cyanobacteria are a natural part of Idaho’s water bodies. When temperatures rise, their populations can bloom and toxic chemical compounds, or cyanotoxins, can be released into the water. Caution should be taken anywhere water appears discolored or murky as HABs can spread or move with wind and water currents. HABs have the potential to produce dangerous toxins especially when accumulated in high concentrations. The physical appearance of these blooms can vary, presenting as discolored water, streaks or globs of scum and can cause thick green mats along lake shorelines. Pets, children, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems are most at-risk of harmful exposure.
For more information about harmful algal blooms, visit DEQ’s website at:
https://www.deq.idaho.gov/water-quality/surface-water/cyanobacteria-harmful-algal-blooms/
