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October 13, 2022

Significant Levels of Microcystin Toxin Identified at Lake Campbell

SKAGIT COUNTY — A water sample taken from the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW) boat launch at Lake Campbell on October 11, 2022 has shown significant levels of the blue green algae toxin Microcystin. According to the Washington State Department of Health, the level of public health concern is 8 micrograms microcystin per liter. Results from the King County environmental lab conducted showed 24 micrograms of Microcystin per liter. This significant level of microcystin toxin in Lake Campbell has resulted in the continued posting of warning signs at the lake.

Microcystin is a chronic liver toxin and can cause rash and other symptoms on exposure. The toxins are often concentrated highest within areas of scum and intense color in the water. Short term exposure is not expected to cause immediate health impacts but, until follow up samples show the toxin has cleared, please follow the Warning Notice for Campbell Lake:

Do not swim or water ski
Do not drink lake water
Keep pets and livestock away
Clean fish well and discard guts
Avoid areas of scum while boating and recreating

For questions concerning algae blooms at lakes within Skagit County, please contact Samantha Russell at mailto:eh@co.skagit.wa.us or (360)416-1500 or visit the Washington State Department of Health website at http://www.doh.wa.gov/CommunityandEnvironment/Contaminants/BlueGreenAlgae and the Northwest Toxic Algae site for test results https://www.nwtoxicalgae.org/.