Napa Valley Register: Klamath River turns lime green

For some reason I have only fished Copco Lake at the head of the Klamath once in my life, and that was mainly for perch.

The lake was and remains full of algae, similar to the worst days on Clear Lake .

However, there is a greater problem. This blue-green algae called Microcystis Aerugin Osa is found in major lakes of the region and is pumped out for irrigation.

The highest concentration of this algae in the world is found here.

Microcystis Aerugin Osa produces the toxin Microystin, which is now known to promote tumor growth. Wow.

They pump it out for irrigation on food products that we eat.

Last week, residents downstream of the river were alarmed when the Klamath River turned a bright lime green. The fears of a higher concentration have been confirmed.

Now we have to put everything on the table and cure this before it becomes a major problem for California and the west. Dams, say many, are the biggest problem. The regional water quality control board plans to post signs at all river access points. The Yurok Tribe has already posted some signs and will continue to do so at every river entry point.

Generally, the risk of problems is with prolonged contact with the water.

Fishing is not considered a major problem, but standing in the water for a long period of time with boots could be. We will keep you posted.

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