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Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Huckleberries Online

Advisories lifted for 2 local lakes

Health advisories for Hayden Lake and Avondale Lake have been lifted by Panhandle Health District and Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). The advisories were issued in late June/early July due to high concentrations of blue-green algae that can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals. DEQ officials have confirmed the blue-green algae concentrations are no longer a concern. Hayden and Avondale Lakes are safe again for fishing, swimming and domestic water supply use with the appropriate water treatment technology. The public should continue to avoid any floating surface scum and contact DEQ at (208) 769-1422 to report any concerns. Fernan Lake is still under a health advisory due to the presence of blue-green algae. People recreating near Fernan Lake are advised to avoid swallowing or inhaling water and to avoid direct contact with water containing visible algae. Panhandle Health District and DEQ are monitoring the conditions and will advise the public when the concern no longer exists/Melanie Collett, Panhandle Health District.



D.F. Oliveria
D.F. (Dave) Oliveria joined The Spokesman-Review in 1984. He currently is a columnist and compiles the Huckleberries Online blog and writes about North Idaho in his Huckleberries column.

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