Klineline Pond closed to swimming, wading for E. coli

Klineline Pond in Salmon Creek is closed to swimming and wading due to elevated levels of E. coli bacteria, Clark County Public Health said Tuesday afternoon. Fishing is still allowed, though Public Health advises taking extra precautions.

Closure signs will be posted at Klineline Pond today, according to a statement from Public Health. Heavy rains in the last few days may have washed animal feces into the water and contributed to elevated bacteria levels.

The E. coli was detected during routine testing. Some E. coli bacteria can cause serious gastrointestinal illness if water is accidentally swallowed. People with gastrointestinal infections may experience fever, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and/or diarrhea beginning several hours to several days or longer after exposure.

The closure will remain in effect until tests show bacteria levels do not exceed state and Environmental Protection Agency guidelines. Public Health said it will collect additional water samples for testing Wednesday. The agency expects results before the end of the week.

Fishing is still allowed at Klineline Pond but fishers should thoroughly clean all fish and equipment. Fish should be cooked before being consumed. Anyone having contact with pond water should wash hands with soap and water.

Vancouver Lake update

A danger advisory remains in place at Vancouver Lake due to elevated levels of cyanotoxins from blue-green algae. Public Health is advising against all recreating in Vancouver Lake, including swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, canoeing and water skiing. Public Health said it collected additional water samples from Vancouver Lake on Monday to test toxin levels. Test results are expected later this week.

Salmon Creek Regional Park and Vancouver Lake Regional Park remain open to the public. Water within the restrooms and shelters is not affected and remains safe to drink.

Test results and current advisories are available on the Public Health website.