Community Corner
Algae Bloom Closes Sussex Co. Swimming Lake
Algae blooms are nothing new for North Jersey lakes, but they are unusual this early in the season.
SWARTSWOOD, NJ — The swimming section of the lake in Swartswood State Park has been closed after a harmful algae bloom was detected.
The closure is effective until further notice, NJ DEP said on the park's website. Park goers should not have any contact with the water, including swimming, wading, water sports, and drinking. Any fish caught in the bloom should not be eaten, and pets should be kept away from the water.
Harmful algae blooms happen when cyanobacteria overproduces in a lake. In the right situations (sunlight, hot and calm waters and high nutrients) the bacteria can cause a bloom that's toxic to humans and animals. The blooms are fairly common in North Jersey lakes, but it is unusual to see the blooms this early in the season.
Find out what's happening in Hopatcong-Spartafor free with the latest updates from Patch.
In addition to the algae bloom, Duck Pond Trail and some parts of Spring Lake Trail are temporarily closed due to flooding.
Updates on all the closures can be found on the park's website here.
Find out what's happening in Hopatcong-Spartafor free with the latest updates from Patch.
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