Two Lake Hopatcong Beaches Closed After Algae Bloom

LAKE HOPATCONG, NJ — Two beaches along Lake Hopatcong are closed for swimming after harmful algae blooms were detected, the Lake Hopatcong Commission said.

Byram Bay Beach and Sand Harbor Beach are both closed following samples taken on June 18 that show high levels of algae blooms, the commission said. People and pets should avoid any contact with the water in these areas, and fish caught should not be eaten.

The beaches will remain closed until two subsequent samples show normal levels of bacteria.

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.