Algae, High Bacteria Levels Close Local Ponds

CHARLESTOWN, RI — The Rhode Island Department of Health announced that two area ponds have been declared unsafe due to high bacteria levels and algae blooms. Watchaug Pond in Charlestown and Georgiaville Pond in Smithfield have been declared unsafe.

Watchaug Pond has two beaches: one at YMCA Camp Watchaug and the other at Burlingame Picnic Area. Both are closed until further notice due to high bacteria levels. The department of health will continue to test the water and will reopen them as soon as safe bacteria levels return.

For up-to-date beach closure information, call the department's pre-recorded beach closure hotline at (401-222-2751).

Meanwhile, the department is urging the public to avoid all contact with Georgiaville Pond in Smithfield because of a blue-green algae bloom. All activities, including swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking should be avoided, and pets should be kept out of the water as well.

Blue-green algae causes a variety of symptoms, including irritation of the skin, nose, eyes and throat following skin exposure and stomach ache, diarrhea, vomiting, and other gastrointestinal issues if ingested.

If you come in contact with the algae, clean your skin with clear water as soon as possible. Once you get home, wash your clothes and take a shower. Wash pets if they come in contact with the algae and do not let them lick it off of their fur.

Algae blooms are somewhat common during the summer months and could occur in other Rhode Island Ponds, looking like green paint, thick pea soup or green cottage cheese. If you see a suspected algae bloom, contact the epartment og Environmental Management's Office of Water Resources at (401) 222-4700 or email DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov with a photo if possible.