Check online for toxic algae in lakes

OLYMPIA - You can now go online (www.nwtoxicalgae.org) to see if your favorite lake is having problems with toxic algae blooms that can hurt you, your kids or your pets.

King County just launched a new database in conjunction with the Washington Department of Ecology (Ecology) that provides a friendly and searchable website for data from algae samples. The samples are submitted to the state through Ecology's Freshwater Algae Control Program.

The map-based website uses color-coded dots that flag problem areas, and you can dive deeper and learn the history of algae blooms in many locations. There is also a section with educational information about algae blooms.

"Not all algae blooms are toxic, so we advise "when in doubt, stay out," Seebacher noted, adding, "This advice is for both people and pets."

- Staff report