Blue-Green Algae Bloom Cleared From Coventry's Briar Point Beach

COVENTRY, RI — The blue-green algae advisory at Coventry's Briar Point Beach has been lifted.

The Tiogue Lake beach was closed to all recreational activities by the Rhode Island Department of Health in August due to high levels of the algae and associated toxins in the water. Recent tests have shown that these toxins are now no longer detectable, the department said.

With the advisory lifted, the water is now safe for recreational activities such as kayaking, swimming or boating.

Blue-green algae blooms are frequently found in bodies of water in Rhode Island. When this happens, the water often appears to be bright green or have a thick, dense mat on the surface. Blooms can also look like thick green paint or pea soup.

The Department of Health reminded Rhode Islanders to avoid any contact with contaminated water, since blue-green algae blooms product dangerous cyanobacteria that can make people and pets sick. Report a suspected bloom to the Department of Environmental Management by email to DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov., with photos if possible.