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Algal bloom declining at Pyramid Lake, swimming allowed

Posted at 3:35 PM, Jul 25, 2016
and last updated 2016-07-25 18:35:36-04

The public is allowed to swim in Pyramid Lake again after a blue-green algal bloom closed the lake earlier this summer.

The cyanobacteria were first detected in late June but have been subsiding, according to the Department of Water Resources (DWR).

Recent sampling has shown the levels of microcystin toxins have declined. The public is still advised to use caution as some of the bacteria may still be in the lake.

Precautions from the Voluntary Statewide Guidance for Blue-Green Algae Blooms are in effect:

  • Do not swim or wade near algae or scum
  • Keep children away from algae in the water or on the shore
  • Do not drink lake water or use it for cooking
  • Do not let pets go into or drink the water, or eat scum on the shoreline
  • For fish caught here, throw away guts and clean fillets with tap water or bottled water before cooking
  • Do not eat shellfish from these waters