Politics & Government
Sonoma County Government: Recreational Water Users Urged To Be Cautious About Toxic Algal Mats In Local Rivers
The State Water Resources Control Board (State Water Board) and Sonoma County Department of Environmental Health Services advise caution ...
June 22, 2021
For Immediate Release CA
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State Water Board and Sonoma County staff responded to recent sightings of suspected HABs in the Russian River, Salmon Creek and Gualala River. Lab results confirmed that potentially toxic algal mats are growing on the bottom of rivers and may detach and become stranded on banks.
Sonoma County has posted “ Toxic Algae Alert” signs on Salmon Creek, and “ Check For Algae” educational signs on the Russian and Gualala Rivers based upon the statewide guidance. Photos of the HABs are posted on the signs and are available on the Sonoma County Department of Health Services website. Sonoma County and the State Water Board will conduct regular monitoring and provide updates on the California HAB Reports Web Map to inform the community when conditions change.
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While harmful algal blooms are caused by algae or cyanobacteria that grow floating in the water, some grow attached to the bottom surface of waterways and can form algal mats.
The State Water Board recommends that people practice healthy water habits when visiting lakes, rivers or streams:
Get medical treatment immediately if you think any person, pet or livestock has become sick after going in the water. Be sure to alert the medical professional to the possible contact with cyanobacteria. Also, please contact the local county public health department.
To report a bloom, do one of the following:
For more information about HABs, please visit:
California Harmful Algal Blooms Portal: Sonoma County Cyanobacteria website
Contact Information
County Administrator's Office County of Sonoma Accessibility Assistance Sonoma County COVID-19 Vaccine Information Suite 104A 38.464665, -122.725235 Google Maps™ Directions Sign Up for Press Release Updates Facebook Twitter
This press release was produced by the Sonoma County Government. The views expressed here are the author’s own.