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Blue-green algae bloom on Lake Spokane near Nine Mile. Photo courtesy of Al Leach.
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Toxic blue green algae bloom on Lake Spokane latest outcome of warm, dry year
Since the middle of July blue green algae (cyanobacteria) blooms have been identified at various locations in the upper half of Lake Spokane. The blooms vary from day to day depending on wind and weather but are becoming denser. Galen Buterbaugh, Technical Advisor to the Lake Spokane Association, reports the blooms are worse in the morning when the wind is still. Samples collected on Monday, July 27th at Suncrest Park, indicated that the bloom did contain toxins.Warning signs have been posted at the Suncrest Park swimming beach. Read More |
Drought conditions prompt Spokane River Fishing Closures
State fishery managers have closed or restricted fishing on more than 30 rivers throughout Washington. Drought conditions resulting in reduced flows and increased water temperatures is the culprit. The Spokane River is no exception. Fishing from 2 pm to midnight is closed from the Idaho State Line to Plese Flats (5 miles upstream of Nine Mile Dam). Read More |
City of Spokane sues Monsanto for PCB contamination
With a bill of $300 million to keep PCBs out of the Spokane River coming due, the City of Spokane is looking for compensation from Monsanto, a multinational agrochemical provider. The city alleges Monsanto sold PCB laced products that it knew were a danger to human and environmental health.
PCBs, a known human produced toxin found in various industrial and commercial products, find their way into the river via wastewater treatment plants and stormwater discharge points. While recreational activities are popular and safe Spokane River pursuits, the presence of PCBs has created the need for a Department of Health Spokane River fish advisory limiting fish consumption. Read more from the Spokesman Review.
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