Warning: Wapato Lake Closed Due to Toxic Algae

August 13, 2015 - Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department has CLOSED Wapato Lake to swimming and wading. High levels of toxins found in the water show an increased risk of illness, especially to children and pets. The lake is unsafe for people and pets.

Swallowing lake water or prolonged skin contact with algae may result in illness such as muscle weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, and/or nausea in people. If someone may have swallowed water containing algae, seek immediate medical attention. If a pet is vomiting, lethargic, disoriented, or having seizures, take the animal to a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Excessive nutrients from fertilizers, animal and human waste can run off into lakes and contribute to algae growth. Reducing use of fertilizers, properly maintaining septic systems, and properly disposing of pet waste helps improve water quality in lakes, streams, groundwater, and Puget Sound.

For more information, please contact Ray Hanowell at (253) 798-2845 (rhanowell@tpchd.org), or Lindsay Tuttle at (253) 798-3530 (ltuttle@tpchd.org), or visit www.tpchd.org/toxicalgae.