SANDPOINT — A public health advisory issued in August for Chuck Slough was lifted Monday afternoon by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.

The initial advisory was issued by the Panhandle Health District in collaboration with the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality and IDHW due to the presence of cyanobacteria, also known as a harmful algal bloom. IDHW said the cooler temperatures significantly reduce the chance of toxic outbreaks. 

“Conditions that support toxic blooms significantly diminish with cooler temperatures, but the public should remain cautious as blooms can remain active in cooler months,” IDHW officials said. 

While the advisory has been lifted, the IDHW is encouraging the public to remain cautious when recreating or drinking the water. The department said that activities like ice fishing and hunting can open both humans and animals to exposure to the toxins. 

Cyanobacteria are naturally occurring in Idaho water bodies. However, certain conditions cause the bacteria to bloom, which produces the toxins. IDHW said blooms can have a foul odor and look like mats, foam, spilled paint or surface scum. 

If your pet or livestock is exposed directly to the water and begins to get sick, the IDHW urges to seek veterinary care immediately.