Round Lake Joins Lakes Under Algal Bloom Advisory in Camas, WA

Public Health Advisory Issued for Round Lake in Camas, Joining Lacamas and Vancouver Lakes Amid Algal Bloom Concerns

CAMAS, Wash. – Clark County Public Health officials have expanded a public health advisory to include Round Lake in Camas, citing elevated levels of cyanotoxins produced by harmful algal blooms. This development comes as similar advisories remain in effect for nearby Lacamas Lake and Vancouver Lake, highlighting ongoing water quality issues in the region's popular recreational waterways. The advisory, announced on August 14, 2025, urges residents and visitors to avoid contact with the water in these lakes until further testing confirms safety.

The decision to issue the advisory for Round Lake stems from recent water samples collected by environmental monitoring teams, which detected high concentrations of microcystins and anatoxin-a, toxins associated with blue-green algae. These substances can pose serious health risks to humans and animals, including skin irritation, gastrointestinal distress, liver damage, and in severe cases, neurological effects. Public health experts emphasize that while the blooms are a natural occurrence, exacerbated by warm weather and nutrient runoff, they have become more frequent and intense in recent years due to climate change and urban development pressures.

Round Lake, a small but scenic body of water nestled in the heart of Camas, is a favored spot for fishing, kayaking, and picnicking. Local residents expressed disappointment but understanding over the advisory. "We've been coming here for years with the kids," said Sarah Jenkins, a Camas mother of two. "It's heartbreaking to see it like this, but safety comes first. We just hope it clears up soon." The lake's proximity to residential areas has prompted officials to post warning signs at access points and distribute informational flyers to nearby homes.

This advisory builds on existing concerns for Lacamas Lake and Vancouver Lake, which have been under similar restrictions since early July. Lacamas Lake, a larger reservoir that feeds into the Washougal River, first showed signs of algal proliferation following a heatwave in late June. Testing revealed toxin levels exceeding state safety thresholds, leading to the closure of swimming areas and bans on water-based activities. Vancouver Lake, known for its rowing events and wildlife habitat, has faced recurring bloom issues, with this year's outbreak attributed to agricultural runoff and stormwater pollution carrying excess phosphorus and nitrogen into the water.

Environmental scientists from the Washington State Department of Ecology have been collaborating with Clark County to monitor the situation. Dr. Elena Ramirez, a limnologist with the department, explained the science behind the blooms: "Cyanobacteria thrive in warm, nutrient-rich waters. We've seen temperatures in these lakes hovering above 75 degrees Fahrenheit for weeks, creating ideal conditions. Add in fertilizers from lawns and farms, and you have a recipe for these toxic events." She noted that while not all algal blooms are harmful, the presence of cyanobacteria like Microcystis and Anabaena in these samples confirms the need for caution.

The health risks extend beyond direct contact. Officials warn against consuming fish caught from affected lakes, as toxins can bioaccumulate in aquatic life. Pets are particularly vulnerable; there have been reports of dogs falling ill after swimming in contaminated waters in previous years. "If your pet ingests the water or algae scum, seek veterinary care immediately," advised Clark County Veterinarian Dr. Michael Torres. Symptoms in animals can include vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even death if untreated.

Efforts to mitigate the blooms are underway, including increased water circulation and the application of algaecides in controlled areas, though these methods are used sparingly to avoid disrupting the ecosystem. Long-term solutions discussed at recent community meetings include reducing nutrient pollution through better stormwater management, promoting native plant buffers along shorelines, and public education campaigns on responsible fertilizer use. The City of Camas has allocated funds for enhanced monitoring equipment, while partnerships with organizations like the Lacamas Watershed Council aim to restore natural filtration systems.

Historically, these lakes have faced similar challenges. Lacamas Lake was under advisory in 2023 and 2024, prompting a multi-agency task force to study contributing factors. Vancouver Lake's issues date back decades, with restoration projects in the 2010s improving water quality temporarily before recent setbacks. Round Lake's inclusion marks a concerning expansion, as it shares hydrological connections with Lacamas via creeks and groundwater, potentially indicating a broader regional problem.

Public health officials stress that the advisories are precautionary and will be lifted once toxin levels drop below safe limits, typically after two consecutive clean tests spaced a week apart. In the meantime, alternative recreation options are being promoted, such as nearby trails in the Columbia River Gorge or indoor facilities at community centers. "We want people to enjoy the outdoors safely," said Clark County Public Health Director Dr. Alan Melnick. "This is a reminder of how interconnected our environment and health are."

For those potentially exposed, symptoms to watch for include rash, sore throat, nausea, or abdominal pain. Immediate medical attention is recommended if severe symptoms occur. Updates on the advisories can be found through Clark County's public health website or by calling the environmental health hotline.

This situation underscores the growing impact of environmental changes on local water bodies. As summer persists with above-average temperatures forecasted through September, experts predict that without proactive measures, such advisories could become a seasonal norm. Community involvement, from reporting suspicious water conditions to participating in cleanup events, will be crucial in safeguarding these vital resources for future generations.

In summary, the addition of Round Lake to the advisory list serves as a call to action for residents, policymakers, and environmentalists alike to address the root causes of algal blooms. While the immediate focus is on public safety, the long-term health of these lakes depends on collective efforts to reduce pollution and adapt to a changing climate. (Word count: 912)

Read the Full The Columbian Article at:
https://www.columbian.com/news/2025/aug/14/round-lake-in-camas-under-public-health-advisory-as-are-lacamas-and-vancouver-lakes/