Cyanobacteria
Blue-green Algae Tips for Lake Users
Report a Blue-Green
Algae Bloom
Call: 1-800-439-8550
E-mail: AHS.VDHBlueGreenAlgae@state.vt.us
Not all blue-green algae produce toxins, however there is no way to tell just by looking at them.
Blooms generally have the following properties
- Water may appear cloudy and look like thick pea soup.
- Blooms are generally green or blue-green in color, although they can be brown or purple.
- A thick mat or foam may form when a bloom washes onto shore.
For much of the year, Lake Champlain is safe to swim in, but it is important to be aware of algae blooms. Blue-green algae blooms usually don’t occur until July, and are most common in August and September.
If the water is clear and the shoreline is free from green or brown scum, the water is probably safe to swim in. If there is a heavy greenish scum on the water or shore, it is probably best to avoid these areas until they are clear.
Take the same precautions for your pets as you do for yourself
- If the water has a lot of algae in it, make sure the dog drinks from another source.
- If your dog does swim in a bloom, wash the dog off when it comes out of the water; make sure the dog does not lick the algae out of its fur.