Health alert issued for Island Park Reservoir after harmful toxins detected
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ISLAND PARK — A health alert has been issued for Island Park Reservoir after cyanotoxins were detected in the water, prompting officials to warn that the toxins pose a high risk to pets and livestock and can also make people sick.
The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality said field testing confirmed the presence of cyanotoxins in the Fremont County reservoir. While cyanobacteria occur naturally in Idaho’s lakes and reservoirs, warm temperatures can trigger blooms that release harmful toxins into the water.
Officials warn that exposure through skin contact or swallowing contaminated water can cause skin irritation, stomach problems and more serious health issues. Small children are especially vulnerable, while pets and livestock face an even greater risk because they are more likely to drink from the water.
Cyanobacteria blooms can appear in several forms, including floating mats, foam, surface scum or water that looks like spilled paint. Some blooms may also produce a foul odor.
People are urged to use caution when recreating at Island Park Reservoir and to keep pets out of the water if a bloom is suspected. Officials advise, “When in doubt, stay out.”
More information about cyanobacteria blooms and how to report a suspected bloom is available through the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality.