EAGLE -- Water recreation at the popular Eagle Island State Park has been suspended after cyanobacteria was found in the park, the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation announced Wednesday.
The restrictions go into place immediately. Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, is naturally-occurring but can be toxic to people and animals.
The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation will work with the Department of Environmental Quality to test for toxins related to the algae bloom.
“Cyanobacteria, and algae of all kinds, are a natural part of any water body. However, some can be harmful to our health when their populations become dense,” Brian Reese, DEQ Water Quality Standards Analyst, said in a release. “It is important to exercise caution and identify the type of cyanobacteria present, especially in publicly accessible bodies of water.”
Restrictions at the pond in Eagle Island State Park will remain in place until the testing is completed and the DEQ deems the water safe.
“Our primary concern is the safety and well-being of our park visitors,” Jennifer Okerlund, IDPR Communications Manager, said in a release. “If there’s even suspicion that water within the park could be harmful, we would rather [err] on the side of being overly cautious.”
For more information on cyanobacteria, click here.