Worcester To Treat Coes Reservoir, Indian Lake For Algae

WORCESTER, MA — Worcester will treat Coes Reservoir and Indian Lake next week as part of a preventative effort to control algae growth.

The city Department of Sustainability and Resilience has hired contractors to apply copper sulfate, an algaecide, at both water bodies on Monday, July 6. City officials said there is currently no threat of exposure to harmful algae.

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On the day of the treatment, the city is advising people to stay out of the water, stop boating and fishing and keep pets out of the water. Residents should also avoid using water from Coes Reservoir or Indian Lake for plant or lawn irrigation or for watering livestock.

Beaches will be posted before the treatment. Water use restrictions are expected to be lifted the following day, according to the city.

Copper sulfate is commonly used to control harmful, toxin-producing algae and poses minimal risk to people and animals after application is complete, according to the city. The treatment has been approved by the Worcester Conservation Commission.

More information about toxin-producing algae is available through the city’s “Blue Space Minute” video series here.

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