Status of Blue Green Algae on Lake Champlain
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Weekly Status
July 1, 2009
All areas of Lake Champlain are generally safe.
At this point in the season algae formations will be rare. However, because algae accumulations that do form move around with changing winds and weather fronts, those recreating on Lake Champlain should watch for dense accumulations of algae and avoid these locations.
Updates courtesy of Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources, University of Vermont
Alert Level Descriptions
Below is a map of Lake Champlain which displays areas where blooms are present during the season. The color-coded map illustrates the following alert levels:
- Generally safe (white) - no toxic blue-green algae blooms were present along these shoreline areas when we sampled. These areas should be safe for recreational uses.
- Low alert (light green) - these shoreline areas have blue-green algae that produce toxins, but toxin concentrations are currently below levels of concern. These areas are open for recreation, but caution is advised in any areas where dense accumulations or scums are apparent.
- High alert (dark green) - these shorelines have blue-green algae in dense scums, at least in some areas, and toxin concentrations are above levels of concern. The water is not safe for recreational use in areas that contain scums. Please see Department of Health information about beach closings and hazardous areas.
Status Map
See Alert Level Descriptions for more detail.
