USFS: Warmer weather can bring algae blooms to C.O. lakes, reservoirs

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River National Grassland encourage people recreating on national forest and grasslands to be aware of potential blue-green algae blooms on Central Oregon lakes and reservoirs as the weather warms.

Cyanobacteria, more commonly called blue-green algae, are not algae at all but a primitive single celled bacterium found naturally in fresh and saltwater.

Under ideal conditions, cyanobacteria can multiply into a large visible mass called a "bloom." These blooms can be associated with toxins produced by the cyanobacteria and can cause harm to humans and animals. Beginning in May and throughout the summer, blue-green algae blooms can occur.

 The following are risks from recreating where there is a blue-green algae bloom:

• Water contact can cause skin irritation or rash
• Swallowing water can result in diarrhea, cramps, vomiting and dizziness
• More severe reactions occur when large amounts of water are swallowed
• Children and pets are at the greatest risk

The Oregon Health Authority recommends the following guidance: “Don't go into water that looks foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green, blue-green or brownish red. A good rule of thumb for you and your pet is: When in Doubt, Stay Out!”

If the public is accessing water bodies from more dispersed locations while developed recreation sites are closed due to COVID-19 they can get up-to-date information about blooms from the appropriate Forest’s website: www.fs.usda.gov/main/deschutes/home or https://www.fs.usda.gov/ochoco. For more information about blue-green algae from the Oregon Health Authority, please go to www.oregon.gov/oha to find answers to Frequently Asked Questions.