Cyanobacteria Monitoring Information

White Pond Summer Cyanobacteria Water Quality Sampling and Treatment

The Town of Concord is conducting two programs related to cyanobacteria and water quality in White Pond. Combined, both models can be used by Health Division staff as part of a proactive approach to managing cyanobacterial populations, issuing water use advisories, and minimizing the public’s exposure to cyanobacterial toxins.

The Town is partnering with a certified DEP Water Testing laboratory to conduct weekly testing on our beaches in town. To see most recent test results, please look at the MDPH "Interactive Beach Water Quality Dashboard". 

NOTE: MDPH Dashboard publishes public beach test results for the state of Massachusetts. Walden Pond is managed by the state, not the Town of Concord. 

Regular Water Sampling for Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae): 

University of New Hampshire cyanobacteria researcher Nancy Leland will conduct a comprehensive monitoring program to provide information related to the seasonal ecology of cyanobacterial populations in White Pond, the amounts of cyanobacterial biomass present, the concentrations of cyanotoxins and the potential influence of external factors (e.g. fish stocking) on plankton dynamics. Monitoring activities will include

• Biweekly cyanobacteria sampling will be conducted at the Town beach, Sachem’s Cove, and two deep sites in White Pond.

This information will be used in two different ways:

• To estimate microcystin toxin concentrations using a simple model.  This model provides a first order screening that can be used to determine if additional testing consistent with the MA DPH guidelines needs to be conducted.
• To predict the occurrence of surface blooms using a simple growth rate model. The growth rate model provides an early warning of any pending increase in cyanobacterial biomass that has the potential to create bloom conditions.

Use Of A-Pod Technology to Reduce Cyanobacteria in White Pond

Higgins Environmental Associates, Inc. will deploy one or more A-Pod HAB (harmful algae bloom) Trap and Removal devices in White Pond during the summer as a trial program. The A-Pod HAB Trap and Removal process is a recently patented ecological restoration technology for targeting, containing, and removing HABs, their toxins, excess nutrients, and their total organic carbon content from surface water and sediment. 

IF YOU OBSERVE AN ALGAE BLOOM

The Concord Board of Health advises:

• Do not swim
• People and pets should avoid contact in areas of algae concentration, even on shore
• Do not allow your pet to swim in or drink the water
• Do not swallow water and be sure to rinse off after contact
• Report a Bloom on our form