The California Department of Water Resources and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife have issued an Algal Mat Alert for Turner Creek, about 0.6 miles above the Pit River near the Modoc National Forest.
Harmful algal blooms (HABs) aren’t just about what’s floating in the water—some algae grow on the bottom and form mats that can produce toxins, posing risks to both humans and pets. If you’re planning to visit the area, here are a few tips to keep safe:
- Follow any posted advisories.
- Steer clear of algae and scum in the water and along the shore.
- Keep a close watch on kids and pets—dogs are especially at risk.
- If you see an algal mat, avoid letting animals go into or drink the water, and keep them from eating any scum on the shore.
- Stay upwind of any blooms to avoid inhaling potentially harmful sprays or mists.
- Don’t drink or cook with the water.
- After any water activities, wash yourself, your family, and your pets with clean water.
- If you catch fish, discard the guts and rinse the fillets with tap or bottled water before cooking.
The waterway is being monitored regularly for ongoing updates.
