Summer Means Cyanobacteria Season…Here’s What To Look For
Hot, dry summer conditions create ideal conditions for cyanobacteria blooms in the Charles River, and we need your help finding them. CRWA's Visual Cyanobacteria Monitoring program is an opportunity to be on the front lines of protecting public health in our watershed!
Cyanobacteria are microscopic organisms that can multiply rapidly in warm water conditions. When they form large blooms, they can produce toxins that are dangerous to humans and animals. Contact with contaminated water can cause skin and eye irritation, gastrointestinal illness, and respiratory problems. Pets and wildlife are especially vulnerable as they might drink the water or lick their fur after swimming.
You don’t need a scientific background to help, just keen eyes and a willingness to help protect our watershed! To learn more about how to get involved, watch our Visual Cyanobacteria Monitoring Training.
WHAT DOES A CYANOBACTERIA BLOOM LOOK LIKE?
While walking, biking, or paddling along the Charles, you might see green spots that resemble lawn clippings, pea soup, or paint splotches on the water. Note that cyanobacteria can look cloudy, but will not look sticky.
REPORT WHAT YOU SEE
If you spot a suspected bloom:
Stay out of the water and keep pets away
Take a photo from a safe distance
Report it immediately via BloomWatch (via browser or download the app)
Your reports help us track bloom patterns and work with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to issue advisories when needed. Thank you for doing your part in protecting the Charles River watershed and all those who call it home!
Written by Maddie Benello, CRWA’s Summer Watershed Science Intern.
