Water Quality Cyanotoxin and Algae
Cyanotoxins are a type of toxin, or harmful substance, produced by certain types of algae that grow in some lakes and rivers. There is only one group of algae, called cyanobacteria, that can produce toxins. Cyanobacteria are commonly found throughout the US in low numbers; however, cyanobacteria can become harmful to health when, under certain environmental conditions, toxin-producing cyanobacteria bloom and release toxins into the water. Not all cyanobacteria produce toxins and even those that are able to produce toxins do not always do so.
The State of Oregon requires the City of Pendleton, Water Division, to routinely test their water system. From May 1st through October 31st, the City of Pendleton must monitor at the Umatilla River raw water sampling point at least once every two weeks for cyanotoxins. We are fortunate that the Umatilla River source water has never had cyanobacterial bloom and is not vulnerable to the environmental conditions hat would encourage and support a cyanobacterial bloom.
Currently, there are no cyanotoxin rules at the federal level, by the RPA may regulate cyanotoxins in the future. Drinking water providers around the country are collecting data about cyanotoxins through the Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule 4 (UCMR 4) to help the EPA decide if federal regulations are necessary.
You can find more information about cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins on the Oregon Health Authority and EPA websites.
