CHATHAM–A local swimming area has been closed due to high algae levels.
On Monday, the Chatham Health District announced that Lake Pocotopaug was experiencing high levels of blue-green algae. The level is exceeding 100,000.
The health district’s director told FOX 61 this is the first time the beach has had to be closed all year due to algae blooms. It’s not yet known how long the beach will remain closed because the health district needs two water samples below the threshold before it can reopen the water to swimming.
Algae blooms create a toxin that can irritate skin, according to the Chatham health director.
The health district is asking people to share the information, and if you have any questions call 860-365-0884.