Wednesday July 20, 2022
KRON —
The North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board is urging the public who visit the Russian River to be cautious of potentially toxic algal.
It was confirmed through testing that toxic algal mats are growing on the bottom of the Russian River. Algae or cyanobacteria can both grow on the bottom of waterways and while floating in water.
Once bloomed, it can grow into colorful algal mats that range in a variety of colors such as dull green, orange, brown, and maroon. Algal mats can detach and lie on riverbanks.
Children and dogs are the most at-risk to the health impacts caused by toxic algal mats. Individuals should avoid touching or ingesting algal material in the water.
Dogs that have been exposed to algal mats should be washed immediately. Sonoma County is posting warning signs and will provide regular updates on the algal mats.