Sept. 23, 2020

KITSAP COUNTY, WA

E. coli levels at Kitsap Lake Park and Island Lake County Park swimming beaches return to safer levels

BE AWARE: A cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) warning remains in effect for Kitsap Lake. 

E. coli bacteria levels at the Kitsap Lake Park and Island Lake County Park swimming beaches have returned to levels considered safe for human contact. However, a cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) warning remains in effect for Kitsap Lake.

While the Kitsap Lake Park swimming beach is no longer closed for elevated bacteria levels, the Kitsap Public Health District advises the public to continue to avoid contact with the water at the swimming beach and throughout Kitsap Lake due to the lake-wide cyanobacteria warning issued June 19.  

Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae)

Because toxic cyanobacteria can make people sick, and can kill pets, fish, waterfowl and livestock, the public is advised to:

• Avoid all contact with the lake water until further notice. This means no swimming, wading, or types of water play where water could be swallowed or get in the mouth, nose or eyes (especially in areas where the algae are concentrated).
• Avoid ingesting lake or stream water. If a resident draws lake water for drinking purposes, they are encouraged to drink bottled water until further notice.
• Limit access of pets and livestock to the lake.
• Avoid eating fish caught during the algae bloom.
• Rinse boats and trailers thoroughly before going to another lake. 

Kitsap Public Health will continue to monitor the lake for cyanobacteria. 

Park visitors are encouraged to sign up to receive health advisories via email or text, and follow Kitsap Public Health District on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for updates.

Swimming beach monitoring

During the summer months, the Kitsap Public Health District monitors 34 fresh and salt water swimming areas for bacteria levels and sources, safety concerns, and toxic cyanobacteria (commonly known as toxic blue-green algae). 

If people or pets become sick after being in the water, or if you see an algae bloom or large numbers of dead fish, please report it online or by calling 360-728-2235 so Kitsap Public Health can investigate and take action, if necessary.

High levels of E.coli bacteria can be caused by wildlife and pets in the water, people swimming when they are sick with diarrhea, a large number of swimmers, infants swimming without swim diapers, and/or and people entering the water without showering.   

RESOURCES: 

• Kitsap Public Health District water contact advisories
• Kitsap Public Health District swimming beach monitoring information
• Video: Bacteria at Swimming Beaches
• Video: What are cyanobacteria?
• Recreational water illnesses information
• Frequently asked questions about cyanobacteria

CONTACT: pio@kitsappublichealth.org