GLOCESTER – The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management and the Rhode Island Department of Health have issued a statement recommending the lifting of recreational advisories for several bodies of water that were found to have high levels of blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, including one in Glocester.
The advisories were initially issued for Waterman Reservoir in Glocester and Greenville, Little Pond in Warwick, Blackamore Pond in Cranston, and Indian Lake in South Kingstown in August.
Blue-green algae is generally less active as seasonal changes reduce light and temperature in the winter, but the possibility of recurring blooms and/or toxins still represent potential risks, even in iced-over conditions, the agency noted. The DEM has advised the public to avoid contact with any body of water that is bright green or has a dense, floating scum, as this may indicate the presence of blue-green algae.
Although the advisories have been lifted for the aforementioned bodies of water, the DEM still encourages the public to report any suspected blooms through its website.
For more information on blue-green algae and advisories, visit DEM’s website.
