Lincoln sailers and rowers have been unable to hold practices on the Willamette River for the past two weeks due to toxic algae in the water.

According to the State Department of Health, contact with the water could cause numbness, tingling, and a rash. In addition, ingestion could lead to irregular heartbeats and paralysis.

“We still can’t even sail in front of the club,” said sophomore Olivia Weissflog. “Instead, we have to have our boats towed by speedboat up past the Sellwood Bridge because the water is safer up there.”

The crew teams are still not allowed to practice on the Willamette because rowers are further downstream where the water is said to be more contaminated. “I’m really disappointed,” sophomore Kiana Killian said. “The best way to train for rowing is by rowing. It has really hindered our early season progress.”