June 15, 2021
A hot start to June has many people heading for their favorite waterbody to cool off. Prepare to enjoy a safe summer of swimming, fishing, and boating on your favorite lake or pond. Join the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation, the Vermont Department of Health, and Lake Champlain Committee on Thursday, June 17 at 5:30 pm for a free public meeting on cyanobacteria. The virtual event is free and open to the public.
At the meeting, scientists will talk about the conditions that cause a cyanobacteria bloom, outline the potential health risks blooms can pose to humans and pets, and help people learn how to identify cyanobacteria blooms. They will also discuss how climate change and increased development pressure may affect cyanobacteria in the future.
Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, are found naturally in Lake Champlain and Vermont’s inland waters. Cyanobacteria can multiply quickly to form surface scums and dense populations known as blooms, especially during the warm days of late summer and early fall.
“It’s important to learn how to recognize cyanobacteria blooms and understand what to do when you see one because some species of cyanobacteria can be harmful to humans,” said Peter Isles, Aquatic Biologist for the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation. “At the virtual meeting, we’ll offer some background about cyanobacteria blooms, talk about related health risks, and provide tips on how to enjoy Vermont’s waters safely this summer.”
Join the meeting virtually using this link or join the meeting by phone by dialing 802-828-7667 and enter the meeting ID: 485 258 725#
Learn more about cyanobacteria in Vermont: https://dec.vermont.gov/watershed/lakes-ponds/learn-more/cyanobacteria and explore the Cyanobacteria Tracker Map: https://www.healthvermont.gov/tracking/cyanobacteria-tracker.