Residents urged to stay out of Coventry Lake

Connor Linskey, The Chronicle, Willimantic, Conn.
·1 min read

Nov. 2—COVENTRY — The Coventry Town Manager's Office is urging residents to be cautious of contacting the water in Coventry Lake following reports of a cyanobacteria bloom in the lake water.

Eastern Highlands Health District had fielded a number of reports of observed surface accumulations in isolated parts of the lake consistent with a waning cyanobacteria bloom. The reports were confirmed by health district staff.

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection ( DEEP) states that cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, occur naturally in lakes and ponds throughout Connecticut.

Ordinarily, cyanobacteria are an important part of the food chain. However, when a cyanobacteria bloom occurs, the bloom may produce and release toxins that are harmful to a body of water and those who use it.

Robert Miller, director of health for the Eastern Highlands Health District, said that symptoms of exposure to cyanobacteria include skin and upper respiratory irritation, nausea and vomiting.

The Town Manager's Office confirmed that isolated accumulations typically dissipate relatively quickly, pending field conditions.

The Town Manager's Office instructed residents to be cautious of contacting the water.

"While there is no public health advisory in place currently, all residents are reminded to observe the water before contacting the water and before allowing pets to contact the water," the Town Manager's Office said on October 26. " Avoid contacting water that appears green (sometimes referred to as looking like spilled paint), or that has mats, films or scums accumulating on the surface."

Signs have been posted around the lake reminding residents to look for these conditions. For additional questions on the cyanobacteria bloom, contact the Eastern Highlands Health District at 860-429-3325.