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Pyramid Lake algae warning downgraded to "caution"

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The Department of Water Resources today downgraded the algal bloom status of Pyramid Lake in Los Angeles County to “caution.” The advisory is based on laboratory results of water sampled this week in the lake.

Boaters and other recreational users may swim in the main body of the lake and at the designated swim beaches as long as they avoid visible blooms and scum. Blue-green algae can pose health risks, particularly to children and pets. Visitors are reminded to not drink this water or use it for cooking, and to not eat shellfish taken from the lake. While fishing is safe, innards should be thrown out and fillets cleaned with tap or bottled water before cooking. Pets should be kept away from water in all areas under this advisory.

Toxic blue-green algae exposure can cause eye irritation, allergic skin rash, mouth ulcers, vomiting, diarrhea, and cold- and flu-like symptoms. Pets can be especially susceptible because they tend to drink while in the water and lick their fur afterwards.

Bloom conditions can change rapidly, and wind and waves may move or concentrate the bloom into different regions of the lakes. Algal blooms can appear as blue-green, white or brown foam, scum, or mats that can float on the water’s surface and accumulate along shorelines and boat ramp area.

The Statewide Guidance on Cyanobacteria and Harmful Algal Blooms recommends the following for waters with blue-green algae:

Take care that pets and livestock do not drink the water, swim through algae, scums, or mats or lick their fur after going in the water. Rinse pets in clean water to remove algae from fur.
Avoid wading, swimming, and jet or water skiing in water containing algae blooms, scums, or mats.
Do not drink, cook, or wash dishes with untreated surface water from these areas under any circumstances; common water purification techniques such as camping filters, tablets, and boiling do not remove toxins.
People should not eat mussels or other bivalves collected from these areas. Limit or avoid eating fish taken from these waters; if fish are consumed, remove the guts and liver, and rinse filets in clean drinking water.
Get medical treatment immediately if you think you, your pet or livestock have been poisoned by blue-green algae toxins. Be sure to alert the medical professional to the possible contact with blue-green algae. Also, make sure to contact the local county public health department.