The Thurston County Department of Health posted a toxic algae advisory for Offut Lake on Wednesday.
According to the advisory, samples taken last week at the public boat launch contained a “very high level” of the algae toxin microcystin, well above recreational guidance values established by the Washington State Department of Health. Citizens are advised to avoid recreational contact with the lake, and to prevent pets and livestock from drinking lake water.
The county advised to clean fish well and discard the entrails, and to avoid areas of scum while boating.
While high toxin levels at Black, Long, Pattison and St. Clari lakes are decreasing, advisories remain in effect for those lakes as well.
