Summer heat sends many people to their favorite outdoor recreation spots, but it also increases
the potential for Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs). When HABs are present it can be dangerous to your health. The Gallatin City-County Health Department wants to make sure you, your family, and your pets stay safe while enjoying the lakes, rivers, and streams in and around Gallatin County.

The Gallatin City-County Health Department has been notified of a potential HAB at Hyalite
Reservoir on July 17. This potential HAB tested negative for microcystin, there is no current advisory at this time. Conditions can change rapidly, and it is recommended to review the HAB dashboard before visiting any water recreational area. It is also very important to read and follow all signage on-site when you visit.

“The dangers posed by HABs and other waterborne illnesses can be severe. In previous years, there have been reports of pets and livestock dying after exposure to HABs. These incidents occur when animals drink or swim in contaminated water,” says Travis Horton, Environmental Health Director at Gallatin City-County Health Department. “Ensuring pets and livestock do not drink or swim in affected areas can prevent these severe outcomes. Always follow posted warnings at all recreation areas and remember, when in doubt stay out.”

HABs are hazardous for humans and pets. Do not ignore signs posted near any body of water. HABs are a type of algae, known as cyanobacteria that can create toxins. Ingestion or prolonged contact with the algal bloom may result in illness, with impacts such as muscle twitching, staggering, convulsions, paralysis, and death. Importantly, children and pets are more likely to ingest HAB infested waters. Direct contact, ingestion, or inhalation of cyanotoxins may irritate the skin, eyes, nose, and respiratory system or cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or headaches.

If you suspect a HAB-related illness in a person or animal, call Poison Control 1-800-222-1222 and seek medical attention.
 
Report a suspected HAB at www.hab.mt.gov or call 888-849-2938. You may also report a
suspected HAB by calling the Gallatin City-County Health Department at 406-582-3120. For more information about, or to learn how to identify HABs, visit: Harmful Algal Blooms (mt.gov)
The Gallatin City-County Health Department’s website includes water testing of select locations
from the Gallatin Local Water Quality District. The Healthy Gallatin website includes local water testing as well as a link to the DPHHS HAB dashboard.

The mission for Gallatin City-County Health Department is to promote and protect health in the
communities we serve. For more information, visit our website www.healthygallatin.org.