Cyanobacteria advisory for people and pets in Southern Lake Quinsigamond
The Department of Inspectional Services is advising residents and their pets to avoid cyanobacteria containing scums in the southern portion of Lake Quinisgamond known colloquially as Half Moon Cove.
All persons should avoid contact with scums and keep pets out of the water where scums are present.
Cyanobacteria are naturally occurring, but can be harmful in high densities.
On October 26, 2022, Worcester officials confirmed the presence of cyanobacteria-containing scums in the Half Moon Cove portion of Lake Quinsigamond.
The cyanobacteria in them was identified as the genus Dolichospermum, which has the capacity to produce toxins.
Scums may be intermittent and variable in location, but are not necessarily affecting the whole lake.
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.
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