thu 5 oct 2023: cyanobacteria bloom advisory

Mailing from the Town of Eastham:

Out of an abundance of caution, the Eastham Health Department has posted advisories at Great Pond and Wiley Park for Cyanobacteria.  Following a complaint, a site visit was made and blue green algae was found at Great Pond in and amongst decomposing vegetation on the pond’s edge. Based on the visual inspection we do feel it is warranted to post these advisories as this is where many families and pets go to swim. Further testing will be done tomorrow by APCC and Barnstable County, that may result in an official closure.

Cyanobacteria blooms may affect people, animals, and the environment.  They have the ability to make toxins called cyanotoxins and can make people and animals sick. The best protection is to avoid swimming and boating in areas where you see discoloration, foam, scum, or mats of algae.  Children and the elderly should be discouraged from ingesting pond water. Pets also should avoid drinking and swimming in this water. If you come in contact with water containing cyanobacteria, rinse off as soon as possible with clean fresh water.  

For more information on Cyanobacteria click here https://www.cdc.gov/habs/index.html 

For a quick and informative FAQ Click here https://www.cdc.gov/habs/pdf/cyanobacteria_faq.pdf