A warning was issued for Lake Wilderness due to cyanobacteria bloom scum formations and low levels of the toxin microcystin. Lab results from samples pulled on Tuesday, Sept. 8 indicated toxin levels were above Washington State Department of Ecology guidelines.

Warning signs will remain posted as required by the Washington State Department of Health guidelines. Most of the shorelines within the Lake Wilderness Park were clear with no scum formations; however, cyanobacteria can float on the lake surface and be blown about from one shoreline to another on the wind.

Cyanobacteria bloom toxins can threaten the health of people and pets if contacted or ingested and contact with visible scum formations should always be avoided. Young children and pets are particularly at risk. Young children playing at the shoreline may contact the scum or get it in their mouths and pets may drink it or lick it off their fur.

Common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and eye or skin irritation. If water with visible scum is contacted or ingested, notify your doctor or veterinary and follow their instructions.  For more information about blooms visit: http://www.doh.wa.gov/CommunityandEnvironment/Contaminants/BlueGreenAlgae or www.nwtoxicalgae.org http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/plants/algae/index.html.

Updates will be provided as test results become available. Contact the Maple Valley Parks & Recreation Department at 425-432-9953, or via email at, parks@maplevallywa.gov for more information.