Recreational Use Advisory Issued for Emigrant Lake Due to Algae Bloom

Ashland, Oregon- The Oregon Health Authority issued a preemptive recreational use health advisory Wednesday for Emigrant Lake in Jackson County due to the presence of a potentially harmful cyanobacteria bloom.

The advisory warns that people should avoid swimming and high-speed water activities such as water skiing or power boating in areas of the reservoir where the bloom is visible. According to health officials, ingesting contaminated water is the primary route of exposure. While the toxins are not absorbed through the skin, individuals with skin sensitivities may develop red, puffy rashes.

Despite the advisory, OHA emphasized that Emigrant Lake remains open for many recreational activities. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy fishing, camping, hiking, biking, picnicking, bird watching, canoeing and kayaking. Boating is still considered safe, provided it is done at low speeds that do not create excessive water spray, which could increase the risk of inhaling airborne cyanotoxins.

Health officials stressed that drinking water from areas affected by the bloom is particularly dangerous. Toxins produced by cyanobacteria cannot be removed through boiling, filtering, or by using standard camping-style water treatment devices. Residents and visitors drawing water directly from the lake for household use are urged to use an alternative source and to contact campground management or local health authorities for information on safe drinking water.

Children and pets are at greater risk due to their smaller size and higher activity levels. Dogs, in particular, are vulnerable to severe illness or death within minutes to hours after exposure to cyanotoxins. Exposure can occur through drinking the water, licking their fur after contact with the lake, or consuming dried mats of algae along the shore.

OHA noted that symptoms of exposure in humans can range from mild to severe and include stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, numbness, tingling, dizziness, and shortness of breath. Pet symptoms may include weakness, seizures, difficulty walking, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Medical or veterinary attention should be sought immediately if symptoms occur.

Fishing at Emigrant Lake is permitted, but OHA recommends caution. Fish caught in bloom-affected areas may carry unknown health risks. People choosing to consume them should remove the skin, fat and organs, where toxins are more likely to accumulate, and rinse fillets thoroughly with clean water.

The advisory will remain in place until further testing shows that the bloom no longer poses a health risk.

Medford Alert will continue to monitor this event and provide updates as they become available.