CYANOBACTERIA PUBLIC HEALTH ADVISORY LIFTED FOR BROWNLEE RESERVOIR

Public Health Advisory

CYANOBACTERIA PUBLIC HEALTH ADVISORY LIFTED FOR BROWNLEE RESERVOIR

 Southwest District Health, in conjunction with the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), has lifted the Cyanobacteria Health Advisory for Brownlee Reservoir issued on July 10, 2020 and amended on July 31, 2020. The initial health advisory was issued July 10, 2020 for the area of Woodhead Park. An amended health advisory was issued July 31, 2020 to expand the advisory for the entire reservoir.

DEQ officials monitor cyanobacteria and associated toxins where harmful algal blooms (HABs) are present and have confirmed that cyanobacteria levels at Brownlee Reservoir 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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Chase Cusack, DEQ                       208.373.0550               Chase.Cusack@deq.idaho.gov
Katrina Williams, SWDH                208.455.5317               Katrina.Williams@phd3.idaho.gov