Hordemann Pond at Kiwanis Park

Hordemann Pond at Kiwanis Park

MOSCOW -Hordemann Pond at Kiwanis Park in Moscow has been closed due to a health advisory issued by Public Health - Idaho North Central District and the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality. Indication of the algal bloom includes an uncharacteristic green color to the water and thick green mats of growth along shorelines.  Water samples taken from Hordemann Pond confirmed the presence of the blue-green algae species of Microsysti and Dolichospermum at levels that exceed the recreational water quality threshold on Friday, August 14.

Hordemann Pond is closed to all activity, including fishing, that could lead to contact with the water or shoreline growth as these species of algae can produce potentially dangerous toxins. Acute health effects in humans may include abdominal pain, headache, sore throat, vomiting and nausea, dry cough, diarrhea, blistering around the mouth, and pneumonia, children and pets are particularly susceptible.

The following are the most common routes of exposures to cyanobacteria and their toxins during recreational activities:

  • Oral from accidental or deliberate ingestion of contaminated water.
  • Dermal by direct contact of exposed body parts with water containing cyanobacteria cells.
  • Inhalation through the aspiration of water containing cyanobacteria and their toxins.

Blue-green algae are naturally occurring microscopic bacteria. Many species occur in Idaho surface waters, and only some species release toxins under certain conditions. Harmful algal blooms occur in water conditions of optimal temperature, oxygen, and when nitrogen is unavailable, and phosphorus is abundant. These circumstances are most common during warmer months of late summer.

The public will be advised when the concern no longer exists. For more information, please contact Moscow Parks and Recreation at 208-883-7084.