Lacamas Field Report — September 25, 2024
Toxic Algal Warning at Lacamas Lake
Since July 28, Lacamas Lake has been under a toxic algal bloom warning, with elevated phosphorus levels contributing to this condition.
Phosphorus plays a key role in promoting harmful algal growth, and the City of Camas treated the lake on July 19 with EutroSORB. This treatment is aimed at binding phosphorus in the water, helping control future blooms. According to the city, EutroSORB is safe for workers, recreational users, fish, and wildlife. Further treatment is likely necessary. Read more: Engage Camas - Lacamas Lake Management Plan
Aquatic Plant Survey Begins
Our plant survey, conducted on August 5 and September 5, explored four sites around Lacamas Lake.
We gathered samples from depths of 1 to 4 meters, with Secchi depths between 0.8m and 1.2m. Minimal vegetation was found, with only small amounts of Elodea Canadensis at some sites. The muddy bottom and limited light may explain the lack of plant diversity.
This ongoing survey aims to:
Establish baseline data on current aquatic plants
Track newly emerging species
Detect invasive plants early
We’re working on the Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) and expect it to be completed by year-end.
Second Year of Mid-Lake Testing Completed
We’ve successfully completed our second year of mid-lake water sampling, with the final data collection on September 16.
This midlake data provides a more comprehensive understanding of Lacamas Lake’s health, complementing the results from our shoreline sampling. Interestingly, we’ve noticed differences between the water quality at mid-lake and the shoreline, highlighting the importance of collecting data from both areas. All data, including shoreline water quality data, is available on our Fieldscope platform.
Goodwin Road Sensor Update
The water quality sensor at the Goodwin Road location is operating 24/7, thanks to collaboration between Infin8 Labs and one of our volunteers.
This data gives us information on what is happening with our water before it reaches the lakes. Data has been shared with the City of Camas and Clark County. We’re working on making it publicly accessible soon.
Camas Farmers Market
Thank you to everyone who visited our booth at the Camas Farmers Market this summer! We had some great conversations, our first sticker was a big hit, and kids enjoyed our coloring corner. We look forward to returning next year.
City Council Presentation
We recently presented to the Camas City Council, discussing our mission, accomplishments, and key issues, including algal blooms and the idea of a floating island on Fallen Leaf Lake.
The council was supportive, with Mayor Hogan asking city staff to explore legislative priorities in partnership with Clark County and LWC to secure funding for more monitoring. Improved communication about lake warnings was also emphasized. Watch the presentation: City Council Workshop (starting at 0:59:30)
New Partnership with Camas High School Students
We’re excited to announce a new partnership with Camas High School students. They’re forming a club to raise awareness about lake-related issues and work on solutions.
Annual Lake Drawdown
The annual lake drawdown began on September 16, with water levels reduced by approximately six feet to allow for dam inspections and repairs. The drawdown should be completed by September 27, with refilling scheduled to begin in late October, depending on rainfall. Read more: Lacamas Lake Drawdown Information
Aquatic Plant Survey Project Delays
We’ve had to delay purchasing a plant dryer due to cost increases and storage challenges. Additionally, we may need liability insurance before making the purchase. Fortunately, with minimal aquatic growth, air drying plant materials is a viable alternative for now.
Addressing the PFAS Issue
While PFAS contamination in water is a significant concern, LWC has decided to focus on more immediate local watershed issues for now. PFAS contamination requires federal and state regulatory actions, which are beyond our current capacity. We remain open to supporting awareness efforts in collaboration with organizations better equipped to address this issue. Learn more: PFAS in Drinking Water and Drinking Water Treatment