PITTSFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – The City of Pittsfield has issued a public health advisory for Pontoosuc Lake following the confirmation of a blue-green algae bloom.
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The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has recommended the advisory due to the potential harmful health effects for both people and pets who come into contact with the water.
The advisory warns against swimming, swallowing lake water, or allowing pets near water. Blue-green algae, also known as Cyanobacteria, can pose health risks through direct skin contact, ingestion, or inhalation of airborne droplets. Pets are especially vulnerable as they may ingest toxins by licking their fur after exposure to contaminated water.
City officials have posted warning signs around Pontoosuc Lake, advising residents and visitors to avoid high-risk activities until further notice. These activities include swimming, wading, and any form of water sports such as jet skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing. Additional moderate-risk activities, such as canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, are also discouraged…