By Theresa Knapp 

In August, Stoddard Park and Pleasure Point in Holliston joined a growing list of waterbodies throughout the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to close due to harmful cyanobacterial (algal) blooms. 

Harmful algal blooms are the rapid growth of algae or cyanobacteria in water that can harm people, animals, or the environment.

Going in or near water with a harmful algal bloom can make you and your animals sick. 

Stay out if water looks discolored, has scum, or smells bad. 

Source: www.cdc.gov/harmful-algal-blooms/about/index.html 

Information on www.mass.gov states, “Cyanobacteria – also known as blue-green algae – occur naturally in freshwater, but can multiple quickly under certain conditions, creating a highly concentrated area known as a cyanobacterial harmful algal bloom. Algae blooms can be harmful to people and animals.” 

According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, a division of the National Institutes of Health, “Algae are always in natural bodies of water like oceans, lakes, and rivers, and a few types produce toxins. A harmful algal bloom (HAB) occurs when toxin-producing algae grow excessively in a body of water.” 

On Aug. 13, the town website said the areas were “off limits for swimming and boating due to general algae concerns” and said the waterbodies were unsafe for people and pets. The post also advised visitors: 

- Do not swim

- Do not swallow water

- Keep animals away

- Rince off after contact with water 

For more information on cyanobacteria, residents were directed to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health at www.mass.gov/dph/algae or 617-624-5757. 

Visit www.townofholliston.us for the most up-to-date local information, and www.mass.gov for a list of waterbodies that have been affected by algae.