PORT TOWNSEND — Anderson Lake, closed due to toxic bacteria, could reopen briefly before it closes for the winter if the bacteria disappears before Nov. 1.
The popular trout-fishing lake near Port Hadlock and Chimacum was closed June 5 after toxic bacteria killed two dogs and sickened another.
It will remain closed until the bloom of bacteria, known as blue green algae, subsides.
Anderson Lake routinely is closed for the off-season starting Nov. 1 until May.
Should the bloom of toxin, known as blue green algae, subside before the lake normally closes Nov. 1, there is a possibility the lake could be reopened, a state parks official said Thursday.
“I don’t plan on opening it back up under the advisement of Jefferson County Public Health Department,” said Mike Zimmerman, manager of Anderson Lake State Park.
“Until we see the algae bloom subside, then we can make a determination.
“If there is an opportunity to open up the park prior to Nov. 1, we will do that.”
If the lake re-opens, notice would be publicized, he said.
County won’t test until May
Jefferson County Environmental Health officials said they are through testing Anderson Lake for the toxin until May.
The county is now leaving any decision about the lake to state parks officials.
The lake still has bacteria levels dangerous for both people and animals, said Mike McNickle, Jefferson County environmental health director.
McNickle said the cost of testing, $300 for each sampling, was the main reason his department has to quit testing.
“We really need a budget from them (the state) to plan for future problems,” McNickle said.
The state Department of Ecology is offering a grant opportunity that uses money generated by boat license tab fees. That could generate up to $25,000 for the county, he said.
McNickle also said the lake is less of a threat now that the weather is cooling.
