Chelmsford's Heart Pond Closed Until Further Notice Due To Algae Bloom

CHELMSFORD, MA —The Town of Chelmsford Health Department has closed Heart Pond until further notice due to an algae bloom, the town announced in a public health advisory on Wednesday.

"Heart pond is closed for swimming, boating, and all other water activities until further notice," the town said in a statement.

Town health officials said residents should not swallow any water from Heart Pond and they should keep animals away from the pond. People should rinse off after any contact with the water.

According to officials, Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) occur most often in the later summer or early fall and can be toxic to humans and animals.

Once HAB is suspected, the Town of Chelmsford Health Department closes beaches and contacts the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH). The state agency then will send representatives to conduct water tests.

According to health officials, in order to reopen the beaches, the total cell count of HAB in the water must be below 70,000 cells/mL, and that threshold must be met in two rounds of samples taken at least one week apart.

Chelmsford health officials also warn residents that even when beach closures are not in effect, HAB may still be present in Freeman Lake or Heart Pond. If the water appears a green/blue color, residents and their pets should avoid the water, officials said.

More information about pond and beach closures is available on the Town of Chelmsford websiteThe Town Chelmsford Health Department can be reached at 978-250-5241.

Additional information about algae bloom is available on the Massachusetts DPH website's Algae Information page or by contacting DPH at 617-624-5757.