After noting sharp spikes in dissolved oxygen levels at a test site on Fort Pond in Montauk last week, Concerned Citizens of Montauk again tested water at the site this week and detected the first toxic blue-green algae bloom of the season in the pond.
Exposure to blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, blooms can result in health issues ranging from skin irritation to more severe neurological and respiratory problems for humans, pets, and aquatic life.
C.C.O.M. monitors Fort Pond and Big Reed Pond for toxic algae blooms in partnership with the Gobler Lab at Stony Brook University’s School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences and Center for Clean Water Technology in Southampton. The bloom was detected after testing on Monday at a site on the Industrial Road side of Fort Pond.
The C.C.O.M. recommends avoiding swimming, boating, and all other direct contact with the water until testing reveals clear results. The next round of water testing is set for Monday.
