State Issues Cyanobacteria Warning for Willand Pond, Dover & Somersworth

[Brandon-K]

News from the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services

29 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03302-0095
For information online, visit Welcome - NH Department of Environmental Services
James P. Martin, Public Information Officer
(603) 271-3710; jmartin@des.state.nh.us

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DATE: June 12, 2009
CONTACT: Jody Connor (603) 271-3414 or 419-9229
Sonya Carlson (603) 271-0698

State Issues Cyanobacteria Warning for Willand Pond, Dover & Somersworth

Concord, NH – An elevated cyanobacteria cell concentration has been measured in Willand Pond, Dover and Somersworth. Samples revealed that the state standard of 50% or greater of the total cells from the bloom were identified as cyanobacteria. As a result, the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (DES) has issued a cyanobacteria warning for those who recreate on Willand Pond. This warning is not based on a toxin evaluation and is intended as a precautionary measure for short term exposure. DES advises lake users to avoid contact with the water in areas experiencing elevated cyanobacteria cell conditions typically where lake water has a surface scum or blue-green flecks. DES also advises pet owners to keep their pets out of any waters that have a surface scum or blue-green or bright green flecks.

Lake users should be on the lookout for cyanobacteria surface scums. Recent sightings of the scum report congregations of the blue-green material on the lake’s edge.

DES routinely monitors public beaches and public waters of the state for cyanobacteria. DES monitors public waters issued cyanobacteria warnings on a weekly basis until the cyanobacteria standards are again met. Cyanobacteria are natural components of water bodies worldwide, but blooms and surface scums may form when excess phosphorus is available to the water. Some cyanobacteria produce toxins that are stored within the cells but released upon cell death. Toxins can cause both acute and chronic health effects ranging in severity from skin and mucous membrane irritations, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea to liver and central nervous system damage for humans and animals.

The June 12, 2009 warning will remain in effect until additional samples reveal cyanobacteria levels have diminished.

Visit the DES Beach Program website at Welcome - Beach Inspection Program - NH Department of Environmental Services for photos and more information about cyanobacteria. Updates on advisories and warnings may be obtained at Current Advisories - Beach Inspection Program - NH Department of Environmental Services

If you notice anything resembling cyanobacteria, please refrain from wading, swimming, or drinking the water. Keep all pets out of the water and contact DES immediately. Please call DES to report a cyanobacteria bloom at (603)419-9229