Ross Island Lagoon Health Advisory Lifted

The health advisory warning people about a toxic algae bloom in the Ross Island Lagoon has been lifted.

The advisory was issued on August 19th by the Oregon Health Authority after the bloom was discovered in the lagoon, which is off the Willamette River, about one mile south of downtown Portland.

Testing earlier this week confirmed that the number pf blue-green algae cells as well the levels of associated toxins are below the levels where they are dangerous to people.

Health Authority official say that recreational visitors should always be alert to signs of algae blooms in Oregon waters.

People and their 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.

Photos Oregon Health Authority