DEQ issues health alert for Henrys Lake and Island Park Reservoir
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ISLAND PARK — The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality has issued a health alert for Henrys Lake and Island Park Reservoir, after officials say they found cyanobacteria in both bodies of water.
According to a Facebook post from DEQ, cyanobacteria harmful algal blooms (HABs) pose a high risk to the health of pets and livestock and can cause illness in humans, especially small children.
“Cyanobacteria are a natural part of Idaho’s waterbodies, but when conditions are right, they can multiply rapidly, or ‘bloom,’ and release toxins into the water,” says the post. “Exposure to cyanotoxins through skin contact or ingestion can cause skin irritation, upset stomach, and more serious symptoms.”
Officials warn against pets in or near the water, as the effects can be more serious in animals, which are more likely to drink it.
“Blooms don’t all look the same; they may look like mats, foam, spilled paint, or surface scum and have a foul odor. Use caution when recreating in and around water,” says the post. “When in doubt, stay out and keep pets out of the water.”