Public Health Advisory

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                        

HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOM (HAB) PUBLIC HEALTH ADVISORY LIFTED FOR HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR

Southwest District Health, in conjunction with the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), has lifted the Public Health Advisory for Hells Canyon Reservoir. The initial advisory for Hells Canyon Reservoir was issued August 9, 2019 and was amended September 12, 2019.

Department of Environmental Quality officials monitor cyanobacteria and associated toxins where harmful algal blooms (HABs) are present and have confirmed that cyanobacteria levels in the Hells Canyon 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 https://www.deq.idaho.gov/water-quality/surface-water/recreation-health-advisories/cyanobacteria-harmful-algal-blooms/

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DEQ Media Contact

Chase Cusack                        208.373.0490              Chase.Cusack@deq.idaho.gov

SWDH Media Contact

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