Grant Health says no blue-green algae advisories at this time
A photo of blue-green algae. Blue-green algae blooms can appear blue, green, red, or brown according to Grant County Health District. To identify them, use the "stick test": If the algae is stringy and can be lifted, it's likely filamentous or an aquatic plant; if it swirls and can't be lifted, it's probably blue-green algae. Toxicity can't be determined by appearance alone.
COURTESY PHOTO/GCHD
MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Health District released a statement late last week saying that there are no current blue-green algae advisories in Grant County in response to rumors on social media.
The statement says the district has not received any reports of blue-green algae blooms or pet illness from the Columbia River in Grant County.
On Aug. 7, the department tested the water near Vantage Bridge and it showed no toxin present. However, they want to remind residents that not all areas of the river are regularly tested, and blooms can develop at any time.
Blue-green algae blooms often look like green paint floating on water. The department asks residents who see a bloom or are unsure, to avoid the water in that area and to take a photo and email it to info@granthealth.org.
For more information on blue-green algae, including pictures and current advisories in Grant County visit the Grant County Health District’s website at granthealth.org/blue-green-algae/.