Cyanobacteria Reported In Bedford, Dunbarton, Hopkinton, Pelham, And Windham Ponds

CONCORD, NH — State officials are reporting several continuing and new fecal bacteria and cyanobacteria watches and warnings around New Hampshire.

The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services posted a new fecal bacteria advisory at the Alton Town Beach in Alton Thursday, based on recent water testing. A new cyanobacteria warning-advisory has also been posted for the Hopkinton Dike at Elm Brook in Hopkinton.

The report stated the fecal bacteria advisory issued on July 18 for FB Argue Recreation Area Beach in Pittsfield was still active. A cyanobacteria watch-alert for Long Pond in Pelham, posted on July 25, was also still active, as were cyanobacteria warnings-advisories for Cobbetts Pond in Windham, issued July 25, and Gorham Pond in Dunbarton, posted on July 26.

Cyanobacteria is a natural component of lakes and ponds and form when excess nutrients are found in the water. The scum and blooms can cause health effects if exposed to them.

“Acute health effects include irritation of the skin and mucous membranes, tingling, numbness, nausea, vomiting, seizures, and diarrhea,” the state said in an alert. “If a person or animal is sick from a potential cyanobacteria exposure, please seek medical attention. Inform your physician or veterinarian that you or your pet may have been exposed to toxic cyanobacteria via recreation.”