Camas treats lake to fight algae blooms

Lacamas Lake is getting a new weapon in the fight against toxic algae blooms. Crews from the city of Camas spent the early part of this week on boats spraying aluminum sulfate on the lake.

The aluminum sulfate binds with organic matter in the water, making the phosphorus unavailable to feed algae, said Rob Charles, utilities manager for the city.

This was the first of two planned treatments for Lacamas Lake this summer. The city plans to apply EutroSORB G, a chemical that quickly eliminates phosphorus in water, later in the summer. The city is also increasing its water quality monitoring to find the best time to apply the second treatment.

“We haven’t seen those huge blooms yet, so we’re hoping this treatment will be a little more effective,” Charles said.

Cyanobacteria, more commonly known as blue-green algae, is frequently found in Lacamas Lake, Vancouver Lake, Round Lake, Klineline Pond and other bodies of water during the warm summer months, especially July and August. Lake closures can be particularly frustrating for water recreation enthusiasts looking to escape the heat. Clark County Public Health most recently issued an advisory for Lacamas Lake on June 4 and remains in effect.

Camas and the county have been working together to manage algae blooms at Lacamas Lake. In 2024, the two signed a first-ever interlocal agreement for lake management, with Camas as the lead for implementing treatments.

This is the second time the city has used aluminum sulfate to treat Lacamas Lake. Charles said a smaller area of the lake was treated last year to test its effectiveness. Another type of toxic algae known as benthic algae mats was found in the Columbia River and other waterways late last year and earlier this year, but Charles said that type hasn’t been detected in Lacamas Lake. Lacamas Lake will remain open during both treatments, Charles said.

“You can do all regular activities at the lake. You just want to stay away from the boats. It’s not harmful to people, but it will slow the crews down if you’re in the way of the boats,” he said.

Aluminum sulfate is considered nontoxic in small amounts, but it can cause irritation and other adverse effects in individuals sensitive to the chemical or those with kidney problems, according to the National Institutes of Health. Both people and pets are advised to avoid the treatment boats to reduce the risk of contact.

Shari Phiel: [email protected]; 360-562-6317; @Shari_Phiel

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