Toxic algae bloom reported in Pattison Lake, people advised to stay out of the water

Olympian - 7/22/2022

Jul. 22—Thurston County health officials have reported a toxic algae bloom is present in Pattison Lake as of July 21.

According to a news release from Thurston County Public Health and Social Services, lab results show high levels of microcystins, or toxins produced by freshwater cyanobacteria. The state advisory level is 8.0 ug/L, and Pattison Lake is currently at 8.2 ug/L.

Microcystins are a liver toxin and possible human carcinogen, according to the release. They can also cause illness in livestock and pets that drink the water. People are being asked to not drink the water, avoid swimming and other water activities, don't allow pets or livestock in or near it, and don't eat fish that came from the lake.

Staff members will continue to collect samples until the algae bloom clears. For more information on toxic algae blooms, visit the Thurston County Public Health and Social Services website.

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