Advisory issued for Coventry Lake due to algae bloom

Jul. 22—COVENTRY — The Eastern Highlands Health District issued a health advisory on Friday for Coventry Lake due to a bloom of blue green algae, with town officials warning that the advisory may be in effect for the rest of the summer.

The algae, also known as cyanobacteria, is naturally occurring and presents itself with an increase in the lake's temperature.

This is unrelated to the herbicide treatment that was performed Thursday for hydrilla, an invasive aquatic plant species.

"This is a first for Coventry Lake," Town Manager John Elsesser said in his announcement of the advisory on Facebook. "We have been watching the increase in the algae since late last summer. Typically it dies back during cold weather, but last December the lake was unusually warm, which allowed continued growth."

The bloom must naturally go away, meaning the health advisory will stay in effect for at least three weeks.

"It is more likely to be the remainder of the summer until water temperatures start cooling in mid-August," Elsesser wrote.

Patriots Park and Lisicke Beach will remain open for other non-water activities.

The health district has cautioned residents to be mindful of themselves and their pets when it comes to contact with the water.

The algae may present harmful health issues, such as irritation to the skin, eyes and ears, vomiting or diarrhea, muscle cramps, and, in extreme cases, nerve or liver problems.

Residents should avoid contact with water that has a noxious odor, appears green, or has film or scum accumulating on the surface.

"Harmful health effects from the bloom can result through skin contact with the algae-tainted water, swallowing the water, and when airborne droplets are inhaled," said Eastern Highlands Health Director Robert Miller. "Pets are especially prone to the health effects not only through skin contact, but also by ingesting significant amounts of the toxin by licking their wet fur after leaving the water."

Miller said it is best to avoid high-risk activities on the lake, such as swimming and other water sports, and even moderate-risk activities such as fish consumption.

Those who come into contact with algae-tainted water should rinse thoroughly with clean water.

The lake will be monitored regularly until the algae bloom has fully dissipated.