Brookline Reservoir Dealing With Dangerous Algae

BROOKLINE, MA — The town announced Wednesday that the Brookline Reservoir has been restricted due to the presence of dangerous algae.

Blue-green algae, known as cyanobacteria, produces toxins that are a health risk to both people and animals. If exposed, people can experience skin and eye irritation, as well as respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses. The town emphasized that dogs are especially at risk, and that consuming the water could be fatal. Symptoms of exposure include vomiting, drooling, and seizures.

“The current algae bloom may cause the Reservoir water to appear cloudy or discolored, often with a blue-green tint. Algae blooms may resemble pea soup or look similar to spilled paint in water,” the town said in a statement. “These visual signs indicate the potential presence of harmful toxins and should be avoided.”

The advisory and restriction will be in place until further notice. According to the Health Department, it ill continue to monitor the reservoir and its algae level.