New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
An algae bloom has been detected at Sassaquin Pond, and residents and pets are advised to avoid direct contact with the water including wading or swimming until lab results can rule out the presence of dangerous bacteria.
Cyanobacteria occurs naturally in fresh water, mostly in late summer and early fall in Massachusetts. Under certain conditions, a concentrated area of cyanobacteria can produce toxins that can cause illness in humans and illness or fatalities in dogs and pets.
The New Bedford Health Department laboratory and state Department of Public Health laboratory are analyzing the results of water samples from Sassaquin Pond to detect its quality. Until an announcement is made, residents and pets are advised to remain out of the water at Sassaquin Pond.
More information about naturally occurring algae blooms can be found here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/harmful-algae-blooms-in-freshwater-bodies.
