People and pets should avoid areas of the lake with visible algae. 

On August 13, 2026, we issued a toxic algae caution advisory for Spanaway Lake. You should avoid areas of the lake where you see algae because they can pose health concerns. You’ll see signs posted at the lake to let you know about the advisory. 

When you see algae, don’t swim, wade, waterski, or fish. Keep in mind as wind direction changes, the algae could move elsewhere in the lake. When in doubt, stay out! 

We sampled the lake on August 10, 2026 and received the results August 12, 2026. We will inspect the lakes again next week. If the bloom is gone, we will leave the advisory in place for 2 weeks out of an abundance of caution. 

What are toxic algae? 

Toxic algae, also known as cyanobacteria, occur naturally in lakes. They can produce toxins that make people, pets, and animals sick. Read our brochure to learn more about toxic algae. 

How can you spot toxic algae? 

Toxic algae can form a scum layer and look like green pea soup. They can also look streaky, be dispersed in the water column, or form clumps. Algae can have different colors, most often green but also brown, red, and blueish. Wind and weather conditions can change the amount and location of algae. 

What are the symptoms? 

·       Muscle weakness. 

·       Vomiting. 

·       Diarrhea. 

·       Nausea.  

See your medical provider if you may have been in water with toxic algae and have any of these symptoms. Small children are at most risk since they have small bodies and are likely to ingest water. 

Skin in contact with toxic algae can become irritated or break out in a rash. This is different from Swimmer's Itch.  

How can toxic algae affect my pets? 

Pets are at great risk. They have small bodies and are more likely to ingest larger amounts of toxic algae. They may drink water with toxic algae and lick their fur. Take your pet to the vet when it shows any of these symptoms. 

·       Lethargy. 

·       Vomiting. 

·       Diarrhea. 

·       Convulsions.  

·       Difficulty breathing. 

·       General weakness.  

What should I do if exposed to toxic algae? 

You can get sick within minutes to hours of exposure. Rinse off anyone or any pets exposed to toxic algae immediately. Look for signs of illness and seek medical treatment if symptoms occur. For exposed pets, keep them from licking their fur to groom. 

Can I eat fish from toxic algae contaminated water? 

Avoid eating fish from areas with visible algae. Always clean fish well and discard guts. 

What should I do if I see an algae bloom? 

·       Don’t drink lake water.  

·       Don’t swim or waterski in areas with visible algae.  

·       Keep pets and livestock away.  

When in doubt stay out! 

What causes toxic algae? 

Toxic algae need light, the right temperature, and nutrients. You can help to reduce nutrients and prevent toxic algae:  

·       Reduce your use of fertilizer. 

·       Maintain your septic system. 

·       Put pet waste into the trash.  

Get involved with our Algae Watch Volunteer Group. Email ehsurfacewater-shellfish@tpchd.org to sign up. 

Learn more at www.tpchd.org/toxicalgae. Find our current surface water advisories at www.tpchd.org/advisories. 

Thank you,

Rob Olsen, REHS (he/him)

Environmental Health Specialist Supervisor

Natural and Built Environment

(253) 649-1856 o • rolsen@tpchd.org

www.tpchd.org

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2026 Lake Treatment

2026 treatment for invasive aquatic plants and phosphorus mitigation are complete. Want to learn more about the treatment process? View the Lake Treatment FAQ. We will continue to monitor water quality conditions in the lake throughout the summer season and into the fall.

• May 19: 34.2 acres of Curly Leaf Pondweed treated

• June 9: 28,000lbs of EutroSorb G applied with 560lbs Phosphorus removed

• June 29: All Fragrant Water Lily (FWL) was treated in the main lake area. About an acre of FWL remains in Spanaway Lake, primarily in the shallow, northern area where access is difficult due to shallow water.

Oxygenation System: Capital Project Update

Design is underway on an oxygenation system for Spanaway Lake that will reduce harmful cyanobacteria blooms and improve overall lake health.

• All required environmental permitting is successfully complete

• The project is in final design

  Construction schedule update: 

  • During the 100% Plans, Specifications, and Estimates (PS&E) review, unexpected redesign needs were identified, particularly involving the primary electrical system and sewer connections. These adjustments are essential for long-term reliability and compliance.

  • In addition, Parks’ annual Fantasy Lights event limits site access during key working months. Because of these constraints, construction will shift to 2027.

  • We are targeting the end of 2026 to advertise the construction contract, with flexibility, since this work is not restricted by a fish window.