07/25/2025
Hearthwood Veterinary Hospital Clients - Be Advised when allowing pets to swim in local waters. Be prepared and read the article below.
Public Health | Clark County: https://clark.wa.gov/public-healthy
Water quality monitoring at Clark County waterbodies
before visiting a local lake, be sure to check for water quality advisories. Public Health monitors water quality at designated swim beaches throughout the summer to determine if the water is safe for swimming and recreation.
Public Health collects water samples from Vancouver Lake, Klineline Pond and Battle Ground Lake to test for bacteria that can make people sick. Public Health also monitors swim beaches and other local water bodies for harmful algal blooms that can pose a health risk to people and can be fatal to pets.
Public Health will issue advisories if bacteria levels exceed state thresholds or toxin levels are elevated from algal blooms. Visit the https://clark.wa.gov/public-health/public-beaches for the latest advisory information.
Benthic algae mats
Benthic algae mats have been identified along the shoreline of the Columbia River in Clark County. The mats can contain toxins that can make people and pets sick and can be fatal to pets.
Typically, benthic algae mats are attached to the lakebed or riverbed, but the mats can detach and float on the surface of the water or wash ashore. If algae mat material is present, people and pets should avoid contact with the algae and the water.
Locations where possible benthic algae mats have been identified are available on the https://clark.wa.gov/public-health/public-beaches
