The Tewksbury Health Department has identified a cyanobacteria algae bloom in Long Pond (end of Pleasant St. along Whipple Rd. and Pond St.)  Regularly scheduled water testing was performed on Long Pond. The results confirmed presence of cyanobacteria (algae) cells that exceed the MA Dept. of Public Health (MDPH ) guidelines for recreational waterbodies in Massachusetts. Per MDPH recommendations, public advisories were posted at all public access points to the pond to notify residents that water should be avoided. There will be monthly testing conducted to monitor the levels of the algae bloom. MDPH requires two samples below the guideline level to be taken, one week apart, to recommend rescinding the advisory.

The following should be avoided:

Swimming
Fishing
Kayaking/boating
Pets avoid water as it is very harmful

Algae blooms can be caused by:

Warm weather
Sunlight  
Excess nutrients in the water such as fertilizer and human/animal waste
Storm runoff
Failing septic systems

Health concerns from harmful algae blooms vary depending on the type of exposure and the amounts:

Contact with these algae can cause skin and eye irritation
Ingesting small amounts can cause gastrointestinal symptoms. Ingesting large amounts of toxins may cause liver or neurological damage
Inhaling water spray with algae in it can cause asthma-like symptoms  
Small children and pets are more susceptible to the effects of toxins than adults. Livestock and pet deaths from ingesting algal toxins have occurred. Dogs should be rinsed off immediately if they come into contact with an algae bloom
If you believe you or your pet came into contact with these algae, you should immediately wash yourself/pet with clean water and contact your primary care physician or veterinarian.

Signs will be posted at all access points. The Tewksbury Health Department is advising residents and their pets to avoid contact with this water until the advisory is lifted. The Tewksbury Health Department will advise the public once the advisory is lifted.

“When in Doubt, Stay Out”

More information can be found at: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/harmful-algaehttps://www.mass.gov/info-details/harmful-algae-blooms-in-fresh-water-bodiesbloomsin-fresh-water-bodies 

See full press release from Health Department here
For more information, please visit: www.tewksbury-ma.gov/cyanobacteria