Several Fecal Bacteria, Cyanobacteria Advisories And Warnings At New Hampshire Parks, Beaches

CONCORD, NH — The updated state Healthy Swimming Mapper is warning Fourth of July revelers to avoid several beaches and lakes around New Hampshire due to advisories, watches, and warnings.

Fecal bacteria advisories are active at the Sanbornton Town Beach on Winnisquam Lake, the RB Argue Recreation Beach on Clark’s Pond in Pittsfield, and Crystal Lake Public Beach in Manchester.

There is currently one cyanobacteria warning: Swains Lake in Barrington, which was issued on June 19 and remains active as of Friday.

The state currently has no watches for cyanobacteria.

Blooms were reported on June 30 at Lee’s Pond in Moultonborough, Little Lake in Sunapee, Kezar Lake in Sutton, and Arlington Pond in Salem. Blooms were also observed at Crystal Lake in Manchester on June 30 and July 2.

State officials warn cyanobacteria blooms can be harmful to people, pets, livestock, and other wildlife. They are not unique to New Hampshire, but are found in many states and other parts of the world as well. Cyanobacteria blooms are typically green and blue and are usually visible on the surface of water, but can also be found in lower depths. Exposure can lead to nausea, diarrhea, fever, skin rashes, and irritation of the eyes and nose.

To view the Healthy Swimming Mapper, visit this link. For more information about cyanobacteria, check out this link at the NH DES site.

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