Health Advisory Lifted November 2 For Link, Klamath Rivers To J.C. Boyle Dam - 11/02/17

November 2, 2017 *Reduced blue-green algae and toxin levels confirmed, continued caution with pets advised* The Oregon Health Authority has lifted the health advisory issued Oct. 9 for the Link and Klamath rivers downstream to J.C Boyle Dam. These areas are south of the city of Klamath Falls, off U.S. Route 97 in Klamath County. Water monitoring has confirmed that the levels of toxins produced by blue-green algae are below guideline values for human exposure. However, the Oregon Health Authority recommends that people continue to be cautious with their pets in these rivers because blooms can develop and disappear throughout the season. Only a fraction of the many lakes and waterways in Oregon are monitored for blue-green algae by state, federal and local agencies; therefore, you are your own best advocate when it comes to keeping you, your family and your pets safe. People and especially small children and pets should avoid areas where the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green, blue-green or brownish-red in color, if a thick mat of blue-green algae is visible in the water, or bright green cells are suspended in the water column. If you observe these signs in the water you are encouraged to avoid activities that cause you to swallow water or inhale droplets, such as swimming or high-speed water activities. For health information, to report human or pet illnesses due to blooms, or to ask questions about a news release, contact OHA at 971-673-0400. For information about advisories issued or lifted for the season, contact the OHA Public Health Division's toll-free information line at 877-290-6767, or visit the Harmful Algae Blooms website at http://healthoregon.org/hab and select "Algae Bloom Advisories." # # #