Harmful algae blooms reported in Lake Pillsbury

Visitors to Lake Pillsbury in Lake County are being advised to stay out of the water after the State Water Resources Control Board said tests confirmed the presence of toxic algae, according to the board’s news release Friday afternoon.

The testing was conducted in conjunction with the North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board and revealed high levels of cyanotoxins that pose a dangerous risk to both people and pets.

After reviewing the test results, authorities decided to install ‘Danger’ signs – the highest level of advice – around the lake, with visitors advised to stay out of the water, including water craft, the release notes said.

The algae bloom is especially dangerous for children and dogs who are most susceptible to exposure. All visitors are asked not to eat fish and shellfish from the water and not to use the water for drinking or cooking.

Algae blooms can cause discoloration of the water and the development of a film or foam upon boiling the water.

To date, no health impacts have been reported from the reservoir, the release said.

Toxic algal blooms in freshwater bodies are usually associated with warm, still, and low water conditions that can develop in summer and fall. For more information about precautions, visit the state portal on harmful algal blooms .

Contact staff writer Anna Armstrong at 707-521-5255 or [email protected]. On X (Twitter) @annavarmstrongg.