Blue-green algae found near Desert Aire

The Grant County Health District issued a warning Friday about possible blue-green algae blooms, after a dog reportedly became ill and died from spending time in the Priest Rapids Recreation Area in Desert Aire.

People were advised to avoid the water along the shoreline and watch for blue-green algae blooms near Desert Aire, the GCHD said in a release. People also were advised to not drink the water and keep pets and livestock away from it.

The Priest Rapids Recreation Area was closed until further notice and the GCHD was collecting samples and posting warnings on the shore. An investigation is underway and more information is expected sometime this week.

Blue-green algae can exist in any fresh water and “looks like green, blue-green, white or brown scum, foam or mats floating on the water,” the GCHD said.