For Immediate Release: 9/20/2024 12:06 pm
WORCESTER, Mass. – The City of Worcester Department of Inspectional Services has permitted the reopening of Indian Lake following the receipt of test results confirming that cyanobacteria concentrations do not pose a threat to public health.
The city closed the lake on Aug. 1, 2024, after it received cyanobacteria density testing results that exceeded the state recreational threshold. The dominant cyanobacteria present were identified as the genus Planktolyngbya and genus Aphanocapsa, which have the capacity to produce toxins.
Cyanobacteria are naturally occurring but can be harmful in high densities. If you or your pet has had contact with surface scums, wash off with freshwater immediately. If your pet has ingested any of the scums, contact your vet.
The City has an active cyanobacteria monitoring and management program intended to keep our lakes safe for recreation and wildlife. To learn more about cyanobacteria and their toxins, please refer to our educational video series “The Blue Space Minute” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p92wTVUX1MI.
