CYANOBACTERIA PUBLIC HEALTH ADVISORY LIFTED FOR HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR

Public Health Advisory

CYANOBACTERIA PUBLIC HEALTH ADVISORY LIFTED FOR HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR

 Southwest District Health, in conjunction with the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), has lifted the Cyanobacteria Health Advisory for Hells Canyon Reservoir in the area of the Big Bar camping area. The advisory was issued July 10, 2020.

DEQ officials monitor cyanobacteria and associated toxins where harmful algal blooms (HABs) are present and have confirmed that cyanobacteria levels at Hells Canyon Reservoir in the area of the Big Bar camping area have returned to normal and toxin levels are below the safety threshold.

Other blooms may exist on this waterbody that have not been reported to DEQ or the health district. Water users should always exercise caution around water bodies with visible slime or surface scum or a foul odor. High concentrations of toxin-producing cyanobacteria may cause illness to both humans and animals. Report any concerns to DEQ at 208.373.0550.

For more information about harmful algal blooms, visit DEQ’s website at http://www.deq.idaho.gov/water-quality/surface-water/blue-green-algae/.

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DEQ Media Contact

Chase Cusack                        208.373.0550             Chase.Cusack@deq.idaho.gov

SWDH Media Contact

Katrina Williams                208.455.5317               Katrina.Williams@phd3.idaho.gov