Worcester News

Indian Lake algae treatment postponed

  • Posted by Worcester News August 14, 2023 - Filed in News - #Worcester  #Indian Lake  - 2,234 views

     

    UPDATE (10:05 a.m.): Due to today’s rain, the contractor will not treat Indian Lake for cyanobacteria. The lake will reopen today and be treated at a future date.

    WORCESTER – Indian Lake will temporarily close on Tuesday, August 15th as the City of Worcester's Department of Sustainability and Resilience oversees the application of copper sulfate to treat the water, according to a press release from city of Worcester.

    While the treatment serves as a precaution, officials confirm there is no immediate threat of harmful algae exposure. Still, residents and visitors are urged to avoid entering the water, boating, fishing, and allowing their pets in the lake on the day of the treatment. Additionally, using the lake water for irrigation purposes or watering livestock is strongly discouraged.

    Beach areas surrounding Indian Lake will display advisories ahead of the treatment to ensure public awareness. Pending a successful procedure, plans to reopen the lake are set for the subsequent day.

    Copper sulfate, known for its capability to control the growth of potentially harmful, toxin-producing algae, has been deemed a safe and efficient solution. Its application is a standard method adopted by many to preserve a lake's health, with minimal risks posed to both humans and animals post-application. Notably, this treatment is sanctioned by the Worcester Conservation Commission.

    For a deeper dive into the topic of toxin-producing algae, notably cyanobacteria, interested parties can turn to the video series “The Blue Space Minute” available on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ZL9RMDapJc.

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