Franklin County’s Scooteney Reservoir too toxic for swimming now

Scooteney Reservoir in Franklin County has been closed to swimming due to toxic levels of bacteria in the lake.

An extensive algae bloom was reported by the Bureau of Reclamation, leading to testing by the Benton-Franklin Health District.

It found elevated levels of the toxin Microcystin, which is especially dangerous for small children and animals. Exposure can be fatal.

People and animals who swallow the water may experience jaundice, abdominal pain, weakness, severe thirst and a rapid pulse within 30 minutes to 24 hours.

The toxin typically remains in the water for about a week after the algae bloom disappears, according to the health district.

This story was originally published August 5, 2017 at 3:05 PM with the headline "Franklin County’s Scooteney Reservoir too toxic for swimming now."