Toxic Algae Blooms Anew in Lost Creek Lake

TRAIL, Ore. -- For the fourth year in a row, health officials are warning about recreational activities in Lost Creek Lake northeast of Medford.

The reservoir on the Rogue River is one of the most popular in Oregon. It has been plagued with algae blooms.

A county health official recommends against swimming. An advisory posted Monday says people should avoid swallowing the water, and people and animals should avoid skin contact.

Health officials fear that high levels of a blue-green algae known as anabaena flos-aquae can produce toxins that can't be removed by boiling, filtering or treating the water.

Health officials advise not eating crayfish or shellfish, and if people decide to eat fish, they should remove skin, organs and fatty tissue.