Safety Tips for River Users

Buddhika Weerasinghe, Getty Images

The Benton Franklin Health District will be testing the Columbia River for toxic algae soon.

Cyanobacteria also known as blue-green algae can produce harmful toxins that affect water quallity and public health. Exposure to toxic algae typically occurs when the toxins are swallowed, inhaled, or when swimming or boating.

BFHD responded recently to a concern about algae at the Sacagawea Park (Pasco Area/Snake River) boat launch on June 16th. While green algae were present, that particular type of algae does NOT produce toxins.

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Monitoring of the Columbia River Begins on June 30th

During early fall of 2021, portions of the shores of the Columbia River that flow through the Tri-Cities area (Richland, Kennewick and Pasco) were closed after the deaths of several dogs who had been exposed to toxic algae while along the shoreline.

Dog Owners and Swimmers Should Be Cautious When Visiting the River

bfhdwa.gov

• Do not let your dog eat or chew on clumps of algae
• Do not let them lick their fur
• Rinse them off with clean water after swimming
• Rinse your hands and any skin exposed

If you see an algae bloom or similar issue in a local body of water used for recreation, please contact Benton Franklin Health District at 509-460-42000.