The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) have lifted a previous advisory that recommended avoiding recreational activities at Upper Melville Pond (Thurston Gray Pond) and Lower Melville Pond in Portsmouth. Recent tests show that algae levels are now low, no toxins were detected, and safety guidelines are being met.
However, RIDOH and DEM have issued a new advisory for Scott Pond in Lincoln due to harmful algae blooms caused by blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria. According to the agencies, “HABs can produce toxins which can be harmful to humans and animals. Toxins and/or high cell counts have been detected by the RIDOH State Health Laboratory from water samples collected by DEM at this location.”
People are advised to use caution in all areas of Scott Pond since these harmful blooms can move around within ponds and lakes. All recreational activities—including swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking—are considered high risk at this site. Residents should not drink untreated water or eat fish from affected bodies of water. Pet owners are also urged not to allow their pets to swim or drink from Scott Pond. The advisory will remain until further notice.
Exposure to water containing toxin-producing cyanobacteria may cause skin irritation as well as symptoms such as stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage or nervous system effects. Children and pets face higher risks because they might swallow contaminated water while playing near affected areas.
Guidance is provided for those who come into contact with a suspected bloom: “Rinse your skin with clean water right away. Shower and wash your clothes when you get home. If your pet was exposed, wash it with clean water immediately and don’t let it lick algae from its fur. Call a vet if your pet shows signs of illness like tiredness, no eating, vomiting, diarrhea or other symptoms within a day. If you feel sick after contact, call a healthcare provider.”
Water impacted by cyanobacteria may appear bright green or dark green with thick floating algae resembling paint or pea soup. Both people and pets should avoid contact if such conditions are seen.
Suspected cyanobacteria blooms can be reported to DEM’s Office of Water Resources by calling 401-222-4700 (Press 6), emailing DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov—and including photographs when possible—for review by state officials.
Additional information on current advisories is available through the Freshwater Cyanobacteria Tracker Dashboard on the DEM website at www.dem.ri.gov/bluegreen.