Meeting Summary
Tuesday, January 28, 2014, 7:00-9:00 PM
The Hearthstone, 6720 East Green Lake Way N
Board Room
Attendees:
Garet MungerBrian DeLucaEllen HewittKaren SchurrRichard FlemingGayle GarmanRob ZisetteBrian Toth
The meeting came to order about 7:00 p.m.
Observations
Signs of spring: Red Wing Blackbirds are beginning to sing at the cattails near the turtle logs on the west side of the lake.
turtles are sunning on the logs on the west side of the lake.
As the weather cools, King County tests on patches of algae scum in Green Lake are showing a decrease in microcystin, a form of blue-green algae that can be toxic and caution signs can now come down. Results from samples have shown levels well below the state guidance level of 6.0 ug/L for three consecutive weeks, so the lake is considered safe for water activities and animals.
You May See Caution Signs Posted at the Lake if Algae Returns
Caution signs are posted around the lake when there is potential hazard from exposure to the algae. King County Department of Health and Seattle Park Department make the determination to post warning or closure signs at the lake. Signs can be removed when there has been a series of weekly tests below the guidance level.
Photo by Karen Schurr
Algae blooms are notorious for being very patchy – high levels in one area and low levels in another close by area. Thus, health agencies always recommend avoiding any areas that have dense concentrations of scum. It is always good practice to keep dogs from entering and drinking the water where the green scum is present. Be especially careful if you notice there is a bright green scum on the water.
We urge you to join with other Friends of Green Lake at our monthly meetings as we learn more about algae and the lake. See meeting notices elsewhere on this page.
If you have questions or comments or observations you can email FOGL President Garet Munger.
Photo by Gayle Garman