the film forum library tutorial contact

Whitman County Issues Health Advisory for Toxic Algae on the Snake River by Carly Poirier KREM2, September 23, 2026

The bloom is located in the stretch of river between
Blyton Landing and Little Goose Dam.

WHITMAN COUNTY, Wash. -- Whitman County Public Health has issued a Health Advisory because of toxic algae present in the Snake River. This algae is known as harmful algal bloom (HAB).

A water sample taken at Blyton Landing tested positive for microcystins. Microcystin is a type of liver toxin. The bloom was found intermittently along the river between Blyton Landing and Little Goose Dam.

Toxic algae in river systems can move with river currents. In areas of water where visible scum is on the surface should be avoided. The look of blooms is described as looking like spilled paint, according to Whitman County Public Health. HAB is often green or blue; however, it may appear to be brown or pink.

Whitman County Public Health will provide weekly or bi-weekly updates throughout the duration of the bloom, which can be found here.

Toxic algae is dangerous to humans, pets, livestock and wildlife. Whitman County is warning to people visiting the area to:

• Not drink, swim, wade, use personal watercraft, water ski or boat in water where HAB is visible.
• Wash skin clothing with soap and water if you have contact with algae that is discolored or smelly.
• Keep pets away from the area.
  - Give pets and livestock a different water source if HAB is present.
• Do not cook or clean dishes with water contaminated by HAB.
  - Boiling water will not eliminate the toxins.

For additional information about harmful algae visit the Washington State Department of Health and the Washington State Toxic Algae page.

Related Sites:
Toxic algae found in Mcnary Wildlife Refuge water NBC Tri-Cities/Yakima, 8/28/26

Related Pages:
Harmful Algal Bloom at Ice Harbor Dam by Terry Murry, Elkhorn Media Group, 10/5/25
Harmful Liver Toxins Found in Algae in Snake River Near Clarkston by MMcNamara, Fox 28, 8/21/25
Sad About Toxic Algae by Julian Matthews, Lewiston Tribune, 9/27/25
Harmful Liver Toxins Found in Algae in Snake River Near Clarkston by MMcNamara, Fox 28, 8/21/25
Whitman County Health Department Lifts Health Advisory for Snake River Algal Bloom by Courtney Flatt, Big Country News, 10/29/24
Toxic Algal Bloom Found on the Snake River for Second Year in a Row by Courtney Flatt, Elkhorn Media Group, 8/17/24
Whitman County Public Health Reports Harmful Algal Bloom Found in Snake River by Vinny Saglimbeni, KREM, 1/16/24
Algae Bloom in Lower Snake River by Bert Bowler, Spokesman-Review, 11/14/23
Large Snake River Toxic Algal Bloom Hasn't Happened Before by Courtney Flatt, NW News Network, 10/10/23
Toxic Algae Warning Issued for Little Goose Dam by Staff, Tri-City Herald, 10/3/12