Harmful Algal Bloom Alert Issued for Spring Valley Reservoir

Fish Consumption

According to guidance from the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, cyanotoxins can accumulate in fish, and the potential risk to people from eating contaminated fish is not fully understood.

Anyone choosing to consume fish caught from Spring Valley Reservoir should clean and wash the fish thoroughly using clean, uncontaminated water. Before cooking, fillet the fish and remove all skin, fat and internal organs. Do not use reservoir water to clean or prepare fish.

Recognizing Possible Exposure

Exposure to cyanotoxins may cause skin irritation, rash, hives, red eyes, coughing or other respiratory symptoms. Swallowing contaminated water may cause stomach pain, diarrhea or vomiting. Other symptoms can include headache, muscle weakness or dizziness.

Visitors are encouraged to treat the reservoir as potentially hazardous while the HAB alert remains in effect and to avoid unnecessary contact with the water. Additional information regarding harmful algal blooms and recommended precautions is available from the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality . Please check the DEQ website for active HAB alerts and status.