Cyanobacteria Toxin Triggers Use Advisory for Lost Creek Lake in Jackson County

JACKSON COUNTY, Ore. — Oregon Health Authority (OHA) officials issued a recreational use advisory for Lost Creek Lake in Jackson County on Tuesday after potentially dangerous levels of cylindrospermopsin, a toxin produced by harmful algae, were identified in the lake.

Activities Restricted After Cyanobacteria Blooms Detected In Lost Creek Lake

The toxins in Lost Creek Lake exceed the recreational use value due to cyanobacteria blooms, posing serious health risks to humans, pets, and other animals.

Lost Creek Lake remains open for activities such as fishing, hiking, camping, bird watching, canoeing, and kayaking. However, the OHA has indicated that low-speed boating is considered safe as long as it does not generate excessive spray, which could lead to the inhalation or swallowing of toxins.

OHA advised the public of the following precautions while the harmful algae persists:

• Avoid swimming or engaging in high-speed water activities where the harmful blooms are visible.
• Water contact should be limited in affected areas.
• Don’t drink untreated water from the lake. Boiling, filtering, or treating lake water with camping-style purification systems doesn’t remove toxins.
• Drinking water systems at public parks and campgrounds around the lake aren’t affected.
• Private residences that draw water directly from the lake should use an alternative water source.
• Keep kids and pets away from the lake water.

For more information or to report a Cyanobacteria, contact the Oregon Health Authority at 971-673-0482 or visit the OHA’s Harmful Algae Blooms website.