Manasquan Reservoir Water Tainted With Harmful Algae-Type Bacteria In Some Areas

Don't drink the water or eat fish from the Manasquan Reservoir in Howell Township.

That's the blunt advice from the state Department of Environmental Protection's Division of Water Monitoring and Standards, after a cyanobacteria was recently discovered in some areas.

The bacteria, which resembles a bluish-green bloom on the water service - sometimes contains toxins known as Harmful Algae Bloom (HAB) which can sicken humans and pets.

"Recent water tests at the Manasquan Reservoir by New Jersey DEP, have detected the presence of an algae-type bacteria that may cause a reaction in humans and pets," according to a statement posted on the Monmouth County Parks System website. "The DEP advises that you should not eat fish from the Reservoir and do not let your pets drink the water, until further notice."

HABs need suitable environmental conditions of light, temperature, nutrients, and calm water to form, often in late summer or in early fall.

For more information, go to https://www.monmouthcountypark...

Image: Monmouth County Parks System