Author: Schupp, Samantha N CIV USARMY CENAE (USA)

CYANOBACTERIA AT HOPKINTON LAKE

WHAT ARE CYANOBACTERIA?

Cyanobacteria, also called blue-green algae, are microscopic organisms found naturally in all types of water. In warm, nutrient-rich environments, cyanobacteria can multiply quickly, creating blooms that spread across the water's surface.

WHAT IS A HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOM?

Harmful algal blooms, or HABs, are known as the intense, rapid growth of algae or cyanobacteria in the water with the potential to harm human health or aquatic ecosystems. Some cyanobacteria can produce toxins, called cyanotoxins, that are harmful to people and animals.

CAUSES OF A CYANOBACTERIA BLOOM

Heavy rainfall and significant runoff transports nutrients, such as Phosphorus and Nitrogen, to the reservoir. When followed by hot weather, cyanobacteria can thrive and multiply, especially in stagnant or slow-moving water.

HUMAN SAFETY

Avoid water contact in areas where the water is discolored or where you see foam, scum, or mats of algae on the water’s surface. Children and pets are especially susceptible to the harmful effects of the cyanotoxins. Symptoms of exposure to or ingestion of contaminated water may include:
If you come in contact with water that might contain harmful cyanobacteria, rinse off with fresh water as soon as possible.

WHEN IN DOUBT,
STAY OUT!

- Irritation of skin, eyes, throat, nose, and lungs
- Stomach pain
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea

SIGNS OF A CYANOBACTERIA BLOOM

HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOM STATUSES

Algal bloom statuses change depending on the current conditions present within the lake. Risks to humans and animals increase as a status increases from Watch to Advisory to Warning. Algal bloom statuses can change quickly throughout the season, especially from June through October.
WATCH - Low Risk
- The conditions for an algal bloom to occur are
present, however there has not been a potential
HABs sighting or report.
- No Closures
- Be alert and aware of HAB signs
ADVISORY - Moderate Risk
- Algal blooms are currently occurring in the lake
and the conditions for a HAB are present.
- No Closures, further testing required.
- Be alert and aware of HAB signs.
- Avoid contact with potential HABs.
WARNING - High Risk
- Harmful algal blooms are currently occurring in
the lake.
- Designated swimming areas will be closed.
- Do not make contact with the water.

ANIMAL SAFETY

Exposure to animals can occur through direct skin contact, ingestion, or inhalation. Dogs can become ill and even die from licking Cyanobacteria off their fur, drinking contaminated water, or eating dead fish or animals found near a bloom. If your pet comes in contact with a cyanobacteria bloom, immediately wash your pet with clean, fresh water. Monitor your pet for signs and symptoms of illness, which may include:

- Excessive salivation
- Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Difficulty breathing
- Convulsions
- Liver Failure

REFERENCES

For more information, contact:
Hopkinton Lake Project Office: 603-746-3601
Poison Control Center: 800-222-1222
Report Cyanobacteria blooms and illness to the local or state health department.