NEWS RELEASE
Public Health Identifies Potentially Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) in Lake Isabella
Kern County Public Health is urging boaters, dog owners, and other recreational lake users to exercise caution and observe signage related to active algal blooms when visiting certain areas within Lake Isabella.
California utilizes a three-tiered system for issuing advisories regarding HABs, which are often caused by cyanobacteria. These advisories provide recommendations for protecting people and pets based on the level of potential risk. Water samples from 15 locations in Lake Isabella were recently collected as part of our ongoing monitoring program. Below are the results of laboratory testing:
Tier 1 – Caution Advisory Level
The French Gulch Marina, Tillie Creek Boat Launch, Camp 9 South, Stine Cove, South Fork Marina, Old Isabella Road and Auxiliary Dam Boat Launch
Tier 2 - Warning Advisory Level
Paradise Cove
Tier 3 – Danger Advisory Level
Boulder Gulch Campground, Hanning Flat, Patterson Lane, Kissack Bay and Paradise Cove
Advisory signs are being posted in impacted areas that advise people of the associated advisory level of the area, to use caution when using the lake in the impacted area, and to stay away from algae and scum.
Cyanobacteria can produce toxins, which have the potential to harm people, pets, wildlife, or livestock. Dogs and children are most likely to be affected because of their smaller body size, increased potential to ingest water, and tendency to stay in the water for longer periods. Exposure to cyanobacteria and associated toxins can cause eye irritation, skin rash, mouth ulcers, vomiting, diarrhea and cold or flu-like symptoms. If you or your pet come into contact with algae and are experiencing symptoms, please seek medical treatment immediately.
Protect yourself from harmful algal blooms by following the precautions appropriate for the respective advisory level. Details about those precautions can be found on our website that is updated regularly throughout the season.
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