Toxic bacteria found in Zion National Park, Virgin River

SPRINGDALE, Utah — Zion National Park is monitoring water in park streams and the Virgin River for toxic cyanobacteria.

Following the discovery of the toxic blooms, the Utah Department of Environmental Quality set recreational advisory levels. Warning advisories are in effect for water connected to the Virgin River’s North Fork and North Creek, which is a tributary of the river.

Several popular spots in the park sit within the warning areas. For example, The Narrows and Emerald Pools sit within the North Fork area.

A full list of the impacted areas can be found on the National Park Service website.

La Verkin Creek is under a health watch. The DEQ explained that a health watch is not an official advisory level. Rather, it indicates that blooms may exist or spread.

Under a health watch, authorities are likely to increase monitoring.

Drinking or swimming in water contaminated by cyanobacteria can result in respiratory illness, neurological conditions, liver and kidney damage.

“Do not drink stream water” in Zion National Park

Even if you’re in an area that isn’t under an advisory, the National Park Service said you should not drink any stream water in the area. Carry adequate water supply or filter it directly from a spring.

Potable water, or that suitable to drink, can be found in the following spots:

• Zion Canyon Visitor Center
• South and Watchman Campgrounds
• Zion Human History Museum
• Zion Lodge
• The Grotto
• Temple of Sinawava

Additionally, the National Park Service provided a list of suitable springs. Before you drink water from a spring, ensure that you disinfect it.

The National Park Service recommended heating water to a rolling boil and letting it remain there for three minutes at most places in Zion National Park.

The Environmental Protection Agency said there are several ways to ensure water is safe for drinking, including the use of iodine tablets, or minuscule amounts of certain household bleaches. Before employing these methods, make sure you thoroughly understand the process to avoid injury.

Water filters designed for camping and backpacking are also suitable methods of decontamination. When using these products, adhere to manufacturer instructions.

A combination of methods is most effective, per the National Park Service.

Although disinfection methods make water more safe to drink, it should be noted that 100% efficacy can not be achieved.

Zion National Park’s website lists the following springs as safe to drink after disinfection:

• Beatty Spring in Kolob Canyons
• Wildcat Spring in Wildcat Canyon
• Sawmill Springs in West Rim
• Potato Hollow Spring in West Rim
• West Rim Cabin Spring in West Rim
• Stave Spring in East Rim
• Coalpits Wash Spring in Southwest Desert

Do not drink water from natural bodies in Hop Valley. According to the park, a private cattle ranch may result in contamination.

Can’t I filter toxic cyanobacteria out of water?

The National Park Service said there are not any known filtration or disinfection methods to remove cyanobacteria from water.

If you think you were exposed to the toxic bacteria through drinking or swimming, watch for the following symptoms: eye, ear, nose, throat, or skin irritation, headaches, burning or tingling, numbness, incoherent speech, seizures, vomiting or diarrhea.

Those experiencing these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately. They also need to contact Utah Poison Control at (800) 222-1222.

Pets can also be harmed by the toxic bacteria. Drooling, low energy, lack of appetite, stumbling or tremors, paralysis, and vomiting are symptoms. Take them to a vet immediately.

Although it’s unknown if cyanobacteria can cause problems by entering an open wound, the National Park Service recommended making “informed choices” while recreating in the park.

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