Alert! Pittsfield Issues Health Advisory Regarding Pontoosuc Lake

This is a heads-up for all my friends, neighbors, and fellow residents of Berkshire County. The city of Pittsfield, along with the Mayor's Office, has reached out to alert us about a public health advisory regarding Pontoosuc Lake. We're helping to spread the word.

Apparently, it's that time of year when the blue-green algae known as Cyanobacteria can start to "bloom". That means, due to warmer water temperatures and higher nutrient concentrations, there is an abundant increase in the presence of Cyanobacteria.

According to the city of Pittsfield, recent algae tests confirm the presence of Cyanobacteria which may present harmful health effects for users of Pontoosuc Lake. When this happens, a public health advisory is issued which is also recommended by the Massachusetts Department of Health.

A public health advisory pretty much means that the water at Pontoosuc poses a threat to people and pets. Warning signs have been posted around the lake, but just in case:

Do not swim
Do not swallow water
Keep animals away
Rinse yourself off if you come into contact with the water

The following health outcomes are of concern:

Irritation of the skin, eyes, or ears
Gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting and/or diarrhea
Muscle cramps
Nerve or liver problems in extreme cases

Pontoosuc Lake will be regularly monitored until the algae bloom dissipates. The public will be notified when this eventually happens. The health advisory will not be lifted until two successive samples(taken a week apart) demonstrate toxin levels are below state guideline values.

For more information, you are always welcome to contact the Pittsfield Health Department at 413-499-9411.

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