Lake Elsinore reopened for recreational use on Friday, February 10, the city announced. The lake reopened for boating and fishing under a “Warning” advisory as moderate levels of cyanotoxins remain present. Swimming and body contact with the water is not advised at this time.
Due to naturally-occurring algae bloom that resulted in dangerous levels of cyanotoxins, the lake has been closed since mid-August as recommended by the state’s Department of Water Resources. Lake water has been tested weekly throughout the closure, the city said.
Results from the most recent sampling event on January 31, confirmed reduced cyanotoxins below the “Danger” level for two consecutive weeks, according to the city.
The current cyanotoxin levels still warrant a “Warning” for recreational use of the lake as the State Water Board and health officials recommended. Under the “Warning” tier, the following is recommended:
- Avoid body contact with the water.
- Do not let pets go into or drink the water.
- Stay away from algae mats or scum, and avoid cloudy or discolored water.
- Refrain from using water for drinking, cooking, or washing dishes – boiling and filtering will not make the water safe as these methods do not remove the toxins.
- For fish caught in the lake, throw away guts and clean fillets with tap water or bottled water before cooking.
The city said it will continue to test the water regularly for the foreseeable future. Any changes to the status of the lake and its impact on activities will be posted on the city’s social media and website. For additional information on harmful algal blooms, visit click here.
