For Immediate Release: 7/20/2022 9:56 am
WORCESTER – Coes Reservoir has been closed because of the presence of cyanobacteria-containing surface scums. All persons should stay out of the water, discontinue boat use and fishing, and keep their pets out of the water until further notice. People and pets should avoid contact with scums.
This closure includes Binienda Beach, also known as Coes Pond Beach, until further notice.
Cyanobacteria are naturally occurring, but can be harmful in high densities. On July 20, the City identified scum along the shoreline at Coes Reservoir. The cyanobacteria in it was identified as the genus Aphanizomenon, which has the capacity to produce toxins. The lake will remained closed as further testing is conducted. The City will continue to test the lake for both cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins, and reopen the lake when it is determined safe to do so.
If you or your pet has had contact with surface scums, wash off with freshwater immediately. If your pet has ingested any of the scums, contact your vet.
The City has an active cyanobacteria monitoring and management program intended to keep our lakes safe for recreation and wildlife. To learn more about cyanobacteria and their toxins, please refer to our educational video series The Blue Space Minute, which can be accessed with this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p92wTVUX1MI.
For more information, please call the Department of Sustainability and Resilience at 508-799-8325 or visit www.greenworcesterma.gov.
