Friday, July 19, 2019

Reassurance about Cyanobacteria at Joe's Pond

The following update comes from president of Joe's Pond Association, Joe Hebert:

People are concerned and I understand their frustration but there is misinformation that is fueling the fire. Joe’s Pond is on the tracking map because we now have a monitor (Dorothea). Blue green algae has been found in Joe’s Pond in previous years but we now are linked to the state to record Cyanobacteria findings.

Dorothea is monitoring in her cove near the Narrows and near Steve and Wendy Larrabee ‘s. I am monitoring the beach. People need to realize that not all of Joe’s Pond is at risk. Be vigilant...know what to look for ( thank for your posting ) I will be happy to
check any area where there is concern.  Joe - 802-684-3655.
****************

If you notice that there is a scum or mats of algae along the shoreline, especially when the wind is blowing, it might indicate a bloom. The blooms can be blue, green, brown or red and might look like paint floating on the surface of the water. If you see anything like  this, use common sense and don't swim or let children or pets play in the water.  Do let Joe or Dorothea know so it can be tested. Sometimes pollen will collect on the water, and that may look suspicious - but we don't know for sure without testing. Since there are no  active farms around the pond anymore,  with improved septic systems and property owners that are careful not to over-fertilize their lawns, we aren't likely to have big problems with Cyanobacteria. Enjoy the water - we have a hot weekend coming up! Remember that this is not a new threat - it's normal and natural to have an occasional bloom that does no harm and goes away without notice.

No comments:

Update & Request

 Marti Talbot, Carolyn Hamilton's sister-in-law, emailed me this morning to thank everyone who has reached out to Carolyn while she'...