Scooteney reopens to swimmers

BASIN CITY — A ban on swimming in Scooteney Reservoir was lifted today, according to the Benton-Franklin Health District.

The reservoir was closed to swimming Aug. 10 when a toxic algal bloom increased the amount of toxic bacteria — mycrocystin — in the water.

District officials have been monitoring the algal bloom since; recent tests show bacteria levels are now safe for swimming.

Heath officials say that while it's safe for swimming, the lake water is not safe to drink.

Ingesting mycrocystin can cause liver damage, officials said.