Swimming Prohibited for Visitors and Pets at Silver Springs Side of Lahontan Reservoir

To protect public health, the Nevada Division of State Parks has prohibited swimming for both visitors and pets at the Silver Springs side of Lahontan Reservoir due to elevated toxin levels associated with a harmful algal bloom (HAB). Lahontan State Recreation Area remains open for camping, boating and other recreational activities.

The restrictions are intended to protect visitors and their pets, as well as first responders who could be exposed to toxins while assisting someone in the water. Cyanotoxins produced by harmful algal blooms can cause skin and eye irritation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and other health effects if contaminated water is swallowed or comes into contact with the skin. Exposure can be especially dangerous for pets, which may become seriously ill or die after drinking contaminated water or ingesting toxins while licking their fur after being in affected water.

“We want everyone who visits Lahontan to have a safe experience and we are concerned for their wellbeing” said Jonathan Brunjes, Administrator of the Nevada Division of State Parks. “We ask visitors to follow all posted restrictions and take precautions around the water until conditions improve.”

Recent sampling by the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP) found toxin concentrations of approximately 25,000 micrograms per liter (µg/L) on the Silver Springs side of the reservoir, the highest concentration recorded in Nevada to date. For comparison, the threshold that triggers a HAB Danger Advisory is 2,000 ug/L.

NDEP will continue sampling and monitoring conditions at Lahontan Reservoir. The restrictions will remain in place until testing shows toxin levels have decreased.

The Fallon side of Lahontan Reservoir remains under a Danger Advisory. Visitors should stay alert for signs of a harmful algal bloom and look carefully at the water before entering. Avoid water that is discolored, has surface scum or mats, has a foul odor, or otherwise appears affected by an algal bloom.

“Fishing is not recommended in areas where a harmful algal bloom is present,” said Nevada Department of Wildlife Sportfish Coordinator Kevin Netcher. “If you choose to fish, thoroughly wash any fish before cleaning or processing it and avoid contact with visibly affected water. Consumption of fish from Lahontan is discouraged altogether because of elevated mercury levels.”

Visitors should follow all posted restrictions. Pets should always remain out of water with a HAB present.

Visitors are encouraged to check current HAB advisories and learn more about harmful algal blooms at nevadahabs.org.