Preliminary test results show blue green algae in Lake Sammamish is not toxic and concentrations of the algae have dispersed since last week.

Since mid-August the King County Department of Natural Resources Water and Land Resources Division’s lake monitoring program found low, but increasing concentrations of the blue-green algae, which is the same type that produced a toxic bloom on the lake last year. Samples were sent to a laboratory for testing last Friday as a precaution after clumps of algae were observed floating in the lake and the Division received calls from citizens concerned about possible health risks.

Scientists traveled the entire lake today, took water samples and tested water oxygen levels for indications of blue-green algae. Concentrations of the algae have dispersed greatly since last week and water oxygen levels are normal. Early results from lab tests of algae samples taken last week showed no signs of toxicity. King County will continue monitoring Lake Sammamish water quality as part of its lake monitoring program.

Note to editors: A grant from King County’s DNR to the Pomegranate Center is helping fund a massive effort to educate people in the Sammamish Watershed about lifestyle changes they can make that will help Lake Sammamish water quality. The program features a booklet that takes a humorous approach to lawn aeration, pooper scoopers and car washing. It is illustrated by Seattle Times cartoonist Brian Bassette, a resident of the area. The booklet is distributed in local businesses and door-to-door. The contact at Pomegranate is Heidi Meyer, 425-557-6412..

More Information Microcystis Aeruginosa and Water Quality Issues

Updated: September 9, 1998