| Navigation Hazards & Health Advisories |
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| Health Advisories |
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Blue-Green Algae Advisories
When are advisories issued?
The Department of Human Services Public Health office of Environmental Toxicology evaluates bluegreen algae test data to determine whether algal blooms present hazards to animals or human beings. DHS does not have resources to collect or test algae samples, but DHS often receives reports of testing done by private contractors, researchers or other government agencies.
Why are advisories issued?
Algal blooms are common in surface waters throughout Oregon, and generally blooms contain many species of algae. Most algaes are harmless, but there are several species of bluegreen algae (also known as cyanobacteria) that may produce toxins that are potentially harmful. In Oregon the primary algaes of concern are Microcystis and Anabaena. Others may be identified in the future.
Advisories are issued by DHS when cell counts exceed certain limits or when potentially harmful toxin levels are found. Toxins in water may be absorbed by humans when swallowed, and when inhaled as droplets or spray in the air. Pets and domestic animals are at risk as well as human beings.
Advisories may include warnings against ingesting water, swimming or bathing, or inhaling water droplets. Advisories may also include information about treating water to reduce or eliminate toxins.
How long do advisories last?
Dangerous algal blooms may develop and disappear within a matter of days, or they may continue for weeks or months. The longest advisory period for any waterbody in Oregon to date began in early June and lasted into late November. The intensity of the bloom and the concentrations of toxin in a waterbody are not uniform. Often the algaes are most dense around the edges of the waterbody, but wind or water currents may change the location of affected areas very quickly.
Usually a dangerous bloom is associated with a distinct bluegreen color and cloudiness in the water. Algal blooms often produce large floating masses of green, yellow or bluish green slime. Visibly affected water should be avoided whether or not there is an official advisory in place.
Blue-Green Algae Health Concerns in Oregon (pdf)- frequently asked questions about blue-green algae
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| Caution Urged for Dory Boats and Surfers |
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Cape Kiwanda
The Dorymen's Association and local surfers are working together on solutions to prevent
accidents on Cape Kiwanda. Tragedy hit the Pacific City cove on July 6, 2008 when a young surfer was seriously injured when a dory boat prop struck him.
Improved signage, better coordination between user groups and partnerships with local business to help distribute brochures with safety messaging are being developed to improve safety before Labor Day Weekend.
Local users know the risks of being on the beach. The Dorymen's Association and local surfers want to help educate and inform vacationers and out-of-towners (beach combers, kayaks, swimmers, waders, kite surfers, etc.) about the dory boat launching/beach landing, and being more aware of beach safety. Both groups want to help make the beach safe for everyone, and not impose regulations that prohibit any user group from doing what they enjoy.
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| Navigation Hazards: |
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Alsea River -Lincoln County
The Marine Board received a report of a 120 foot log, partially submerged, creating a navigation hazard between river mile 6 and 8 on the Alsea River. Boaters are urged to keep a sharp lookout, especially during low tide. Lincoln County Marine Patrol was notified on August 20, 2009.
North Santiam River
From Buel-Miller boat launch at Shelburn down to Jefferson, there are multiple blockages that create severe navigation hazards. All but the most experienced boaters familiar with this specific area are advised to avoid this stretch of river. This stretch is NOT SUITABLE FOR CANOES OR RAFTS. The main channel may be blocked by log jams requiring long portages to side-water channels.
8/04/08
The Northwest Steelheader's report says Shelburn (aka Buell Miller boat ramp) is approximately two miles downstream to the upper tip of Wiseman or Miler Islands. After about a mile or more, there are shallow places on both sides. Just above the tree, there's a channel that scours to the left (south) but it's blocked by brances on the surface of the water that cross the channel. Boats must use the right channel and drag around the shallow spots. There are multiple braided channels and many have obstructions. It's critically important to be able to see all the way around a corner prior to going downstream. Scouting is necessary. On July 31 and August 1, Bob Lusk removed the blockage, but experienced boaters still need to have a sharp lookout. It's advised to follow an experienced local boater.
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| Other Hazards: |
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McKenzie River
10/2/08
The latest report is of a 60 inch diameter cottonwood tree is blocking much of the McKenzie River just above McKenzie Bridge. Because of the lcoation, the size of the tree and the fact that it is somewhat decomposed, it cannot be removed safely or easily. Signs have been placed at the launch points upstream, discouraging boaters from launching. Experineced boaters can pass on the extreme river right, but the current makes it very difficult and it's not recommended. There are a few private rafters/kayakers using this section of the river. Likely, the tree will break apart after the first winter storm. Until that time, boaters are urged to use extreme caution and avoid this area.
Report any dangerous blockages or other hazards to ashley.massey@state.or.us.
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