Lake Status and Blue-green Algae Bloom Updates
Current Lake Status
June 2013
Weekly Lake Champlain blue-green algae monitoring reports for 2013 will begin soon. Some lake sampling has started, and no blooms have been reported as yet.
Wind and waves can move algae around. Blooms can appear or disappear very rapidly, so conditions around the lake are likely to change over the course of the week. As always, watch for and avoid blue-green algae blooms.
Other Bodies of Water
Not all bodies of water in Vermont are monitored. Report a Bloom if you find a suspected algae bloom.
For the current status of your favorite beach or swimming area, contact whoever is responsible for maintaining the beach. This may be the town, Vermont State Parks, or a private association.
For information about conditions in New York lakes other than Lake Champlain, visit New York Blue-Green Algal Bloom Notices.
Lake Status Interactive Map
The map status of blue-green algae reflects conditions and data as of the date of report. Test site observations and samples are collected once each week.
Current lake conditions may change. If you see blue-green algae, don't go in the water.
- Search by lake region or by town
- View latest results by test site
- Click on the site's alert status for more information
Last year's status reports can be found in our 2012 archived map.
The interactive Lake Champlain status map brings together in one place environmental and public health surveillance data about Blue-green algae. The map is a data collaboration project of the Departments of Health and Environmental Conservation.
If you have questions, call 1-800-439-8550 or email Environmental Health Division.
For searchable data and information about the links between the environment and public health, visit our Vermont Environmental Public Health Tracking Portal.
Alert Level Descriptions
Generally Safe - green
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 - yellow
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 - red
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.
Report a Bloom
If you have questions or want to report a suspected bloom:
Call 800-439-8550 or 802-863-7220, or email AHS.VDHBlueGreenAlgae@state.vt.us.
If you believe that someone has become ill because of exposure to blue-green algae, seek medical attention and contact the Health Department at 1-800-439-8550.
Updates and data are provided in cooperation with the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources and the Lake Champlain Committee.