Algae Warning Lifted At Manasquan Reservoir In Howell

HOWELL, NJ — A warning about a harmful algae bloom in Manasquan Reservoir has been lifted, allowing those who fish and boat at the reservoir to resume those activities.

The Monmouth County Park System posted an update saying the bloom has subsided and activities that are popular at the reservoir, including fishing, can resume.

"Please note that as per the rules and regulations of the Park System, swimming in the Reservoir is not permitted by visitors or their pets.," the notice said.

All activities were suspended earlier this month after a bloom of algae that developed when cyanobacteria overproduced. It is the same bacteria and algae that led to closures of Lake Hopatcong and Swartswood Lake to swimming earlier this summer. The state Department of Environmental Protection, which monitors the state's freshwater lakes, said the algae blooms can develop when sunlight, hot and calm waters and high nutrients combine and allow the bacteria to cause the bloom, which is toxic to humans and animals.

The initial warning also said fish caught in the reservoir should not be eaten and pets should not contact or drink the water.

Drinking water pulled from the reservoir is treated to remove the algae and any of its byproducts, a New Jersey Water Supply Authority official said.

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