Board of Health Statement Regarding Cyanobacteria in Lake Boon

Important Info

The Board of Health has received a number of calls regarding the safety of Lake Boon given the reports that testing has indicated the presence of blue green algae, and the toxins they produce in the lake.  The Board of Health has not conducted any testing for algae or toxins nor have we seen the reported test results and therefore we can’t comment on whether the lake is safe for swimming based on these reported tests. 

Cyanobacteria (sometimes called blue-green algae) occur naturally in fresh- water. Under certain conditions, they can multiply quickly, creating a highly concentrated area known as a cyanobacterial harmful algal bloom, or cyanoHAB.  Algal blooms can be harmful to people and animals.  Information on these blooms, the toxins they produce and what you can do to protect yourself and your pets can be found at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health’ website:  https://www.mass.gov/info-details/harmful-algae-blooms-in-freshwater-bodies.

Individuals, especially pets and children should avoid contact with bathing waters where blue green algae are present. 

For additional information, please refer to the Lake Boon Association website