Toxic Algae Advisory Lifted For Spanaway Lake

SPANAWAY, WA — The Tacoma - Pierce County Health Department says it's safe for the public to return to Spanaway Lake.

Previously the lake had been under an advisory due to a toxic algae bloom in the water, but a recent round of testing found that algae presence had dipped to acceptable levels.

Still, anyone who sees algae on the water is cautioned to keep away. Don't swim, wade or fish near it. Instead, move somewhere else. Toxic algae, or cyanobacteria, form a layer of scum on top of the water. Algae is normally green but can be brown, red, or blue depending on the strain.

Anyone who comes in contact with algae can end up with several symptoms including muscle weakness, rashes, vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea. The algae can be particularly harmful to young children and pets, so parents and pet owners will want to be extra careful.

More information on toxic algae can be found at the health department's website here.