WORCESTER—The city is treating two major recreational water bodies — Coes Reservoir and Indian Lake — with copper sulfate this Thursday, July 31, as a preventative measure against harmful algae growth.
According to a city announcement, the application is not in response to any current algae outbreak. Instead, the treatment is being applied proactively to reduce the risk of toxin-producing algae blooms later in the season.
The Department of Sustainability and Resilience has hired licensed contractors to conduct the treatment, which has been approved by the Worcester Conservation Commission. Copper sulfate is commonly used to limit the growth of cyanobacteria, sometimes referred to as blue-green algae. The city notes that the treatment is safe and effective and presents minimal risk once applied.
On the day of the application, residents are advised to avoid swimming or boating in Coes Reservoir and Indian Lake, and to keep pets away from the water. The city also recommends suspending the use of lake water for irrigation or livestock until restrictions are lifted the following day.
Beaches will be posted with signage ahead of the treatment.
For more information on cyanobacteria and how Worcester monitors its lakes and ponds, the city recommends watching the video above.
