Whitman County Public Health on Wednesday lifted its advisory for toxic algae on the Snake River. The harmful algal bloom covered about a 50-mile stretch of river, from Blyton Landing to Little Goose Dam.
Public health leaders first noticed the algal bloom and started testing the water for toxins in August. This is the fourth consecutive year a bloom has shown up in the area.
Water samples had tested positive for a liver toxin called Microcystin. The toxin, which can look like green or blue spilled paint, can be harmful to people, pets and livestock.
Samples continued to show high levels of toxins through early October, according to public health leaders.
But two samples in a row, three weeks apart, showed levels below what Washington considers toxic. Two samples were taken three weeks apart.
Health leaders say it’s really hard to find out what’s causing these algal blooms. But they’ll continue monitoring this part of the Snake River next year.
