Health advisory lifted for Walterville Pond

Reduced blue-green algae levels confirmed

The Oregon Health Authority has lifted a health advisory issued Sept. 13 for Walterville Pond, located off Oregon Hwy. 126, a half-mile northeast of Walterville. High levels of blue-green algae found in the pond prompted the advisory.

Water monitoring has confirmed reduced levels of blue-green algae and their toxins. These reduced levels are not likely to be harmful to humans and animals.

Oregon health officials advise people who use Oregon water bodies for recreation to always be alert to signs of algae blooms. People and their pets should avoid contact if the water is foamy, scummy, thick like paint, pea-green, blue-green or brownish red in color, or if a mat of algae is visible in the water.

For local information about water quality or blue-green algae sampling, contact the Eugene Water & Electric Board (EWEB) at 541-685-7471 and the Lane County Health Department at 541-682-4526.

McKenzie River Reflections