June 27,2023 11:10 a.m.
On Monday, the Oregon Health Authority issued a recreational use health advisory for Galesville Reservoir due to the presence of a cyanobacteria bloom.
OHA said people should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities, such as water skiing or power boating, in areas of the reservoir where blooms are in place, as the major route of exposure is ingestion of water. Toxins are not absorbed through the skin. However, those with skin sensitivities may get a puffy red rash.
OHA encourages people to visit Galesville Reservoir and enjoy activities such as fishing, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, bird watching, canoeing and kayaking. Boating is safe as long as speeds do not create excessive water spray. Sprays could lead to the risk of inhaling cyanotoxins.
The OHA release said that drinking water directly from areas of the reservoir affected by a bloom is especially dangerous. Toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering, or treating water with camping-style filers.
Learn more about cyanobacteria blooms from OHA at: https://www.oregon.gov/OHA/PH/HealthyEnvironments/Recreation/HarmfulAlgaeBlooms/pages/index.aspx?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery