BLUE-GREEN ALGAE IN TUALATIN RIVER A POTENTIAL TOXIC HAZARD
JUNE 9, 2008
Caution is urged for people using the lower Tualatin River for recreation. Blue-green algae
U.S Geological Survey scientists were on the river today taking samples for laboratory analysis. USGS scientist Kurt Carpenter cautioned pet owners about letting their dogs swim in the river. "Each year 8 or 9 dogs in Oregon die from toxins after swimming in water infected with blue-green algae" said Carpenter. Samples that Carpenter collected today will be tested for toxins. "We urge caution while the level of risk is being assessed," said Wegener. "Avoid contact, don't go swimming, and don't let your pets go in the water until we get the all-clear signal from the appropriate agencies. Wash thoroughly after contacting the water."
The Riverkeepers are urging people to report problems on the river through their website.
Brian Wegener
Watershed Watch Coordinator
Tualatin Riverkeepers
12360 SW Main St -Suite 100
Tigard, OR 97223
office: (503)620-7507 cell: (503)936-7612
Website:
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U.S. Geological Survey is running tests for toxins on samples gathered yesterday.
Results will be known sometime Friday 7/11/08 and will be widely distributed.
Contact: Stuart Rounds sarounds@usgs.gov 503-251-3280.
Clean Water Services is increasing releases from Hagg Lake to control temperature and flow.
For details Contact Mark Jockers jockersm@cleanwaterservices.org 503-681-4450.
For information on health risks from blue-green algae, visit the