Blue-green algae outbreak detected at Avondale Lake

Avondale has become the third North Idaho lake with a blue-green algae outbreak this summer.

A health advisory was issued Tuesday by the Panhandle Health District and the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality.

People recreating at the small lake near Hayden should use caution and avoid contact with the water, officials say. The blooms, which look like blobs of scum or thick green mats, can contain toxins.

Pets, children, the elderly and people with compromised immune systems are at the most risk of harm from swallowing or coming into contact with the water. Upset stomachs and skin rashes are two symptoms.

Water by the public access point on Avondale Lake’s south side is most severely impacted. Blue-green algae advisories also are in place for Fernan Lake and Hayden Lake.

At Fernan Lake, a project is underway to restore native plants on eroding shorelines. Local residents hope it will improve water quality, reducing future blue-green algae outbreaks.