Toxic algae bloom in local reservoir

SMITHFIELD, R.I. (WPRI) - Keep your kids and pets away from the Slack Reservoir. That was the warning from the DEM after a toxic blue-green algae bloom was detected in the reservoir.

The bloom was located in the norther portion of the reservoir , which is in both Smithfield and Johnston.  State Department of Environmental Management tests confirmed the presence of algae, which gives the water a green tint.

It's the sixth body of water to be closed because of algae this year. Just a few days ago, DEM sent out warnings about Slater Memorial Park Pond in Pawtucket, Mashapaug Pond and Roger Williams Pond in Providence, and Spectacle Pond and J.L. Curran Reservoir in Cranston.

The DEM cautions that people should avoid swimming, boating or fishing in the reservoir until further notice, and to definitely not drink any water from the reservoir.  Pets can also be affected and so the ban applies to them as well.

Contact with toxins released by the algae can cause a variety of symptoms including rashes and irritation of the eyes, nose and throat.  If ingested, the toxins can cause stomach aches, diarrhea, vomiting and nausea.  Rarer effects in extreme cases include fever, liver damage or nevous system damage.

Officials say young children and pets are more at risk because they are more likely to drink the contaminated water.

Any body of water with a green tint or visible algae matting should be avoided.  To report suspected blue-green algae blooms, contact Brian Zalewsky in DEM’s Office of Water Resources at 222-4700 ext. 7145 or by e-mail at brian.zalewsky@dem.ri.gov and if possible, send a photograph of the reported algae bloom.

For more information, you can check the Department of Health's website here:

www.health.ri.gov/healthrisks/poisoning/cyanobacteria/index.php

http://www.dem.ri.gov/programs/bnatres/agricult/pdf/algaepostr.pdf