The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) have advised residents to avoid contact with Lower Melville Pond in Portsmouth following confirmation of a cyanobacteria bloom. Cyanobacteria, commonly known as blue-green algae, are present naturally in water bodies but can form harmful algae blooms (HABs) under certain conditions. The agencies warn that swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking at this location pose health risks and should be avoided.
Officials note that HABs may move within ponds and lakes, so caution is urged throughout Lower Melville Pond. Residents are also advised not to drink untreated water or eat fish from affected areas. Pet owners should prevent pets from drinking or swimming in the pond.
Contact with toxin-producing cyanobacteria can result in irritation of the skin, nose, eyes, and throat. Ingesting contaminated water may cause stomachache, diarrhea, vomiting, or nausea. Less common effects include dizziness, headache, fever, liver damage, and nervous system damage. Young children and pets face higher risks because they are more likely to ingest water while near affected bodies.
“If you or your pet come into contact with a cyanobacteria HAB:
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.”
Waters impacted by these blooms often appear bright to dark green with thick algae floating on the surface; they may resemble green paint or pea soup. Both people and animals should avoid such waters.
Suspected blooms can be reported to DEM’s Office of Water Resources at 401-222-4700 (Press 6) or via email at DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov; photographs of the algae bloom are encouraged for reporting purposes. Additional information and current advisories are available through the Freshwater Cyanobacteria Tracker Dashboard at www.dem.ri.gov/bluegreen.
