ALGAL BLOOM

DO NOT ENTER POND

AVOID CONTACT WITH WATER

DO NOT FEED DUCKS

Keep pets and children away from the water and avoid skin contact with the water or algae. Do not feed the ducks or throw any food into the pond

Boughton Pond is currently experiencing a suspected algal bloom. These form regularly in the spring and summer and can cause the water to become toxic.

Algae occur naturally in inland waters such as rivers, streams and lakes. When conditions are ideal for growth, an algal bloom can occur. During a bloom, the water becomes less clear and may look green, blue-green or greenish-brown. Scums can form during calm weather when several bloom forming species rise to the surface. This can look like paint, mousse or small clumps.

Cyanobacteria or ‘blue-green algae’, a type of blooming algae, can produce toxins. These toxins can kill wild animals, livestock and pets. They can also harm people, producing rashes after skin contact and illnesses if swallowed.

Algal blooms block sunlight from reaching other plants in the water. They also use up oxygen in the water at night which can suffocate fish and other creatures. Oxygen is also used up when the bloom decays.