Status of Blue Green Algae on Lake Champlain
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Weekly Status
October 22, 2009
All of Lake Champlain is generally safe.
This is the final update for the 2009 surveillance season. Those recreating on the lake should watch for and avoid areas of any remaining accumulations of algae, which can move around with changing winds and weather.
Updates courtesy of Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources, University of Vermont
Lake Status Map
The color-coded map of Lake Champlain illustrates alert levels in areas where blooms are present:
See Alert Level Descriptions for more detail.
Alert Level Descriptions
The color-coded map illustrates the following alert levels:
- Generally safe (white) - no toxic blue-green algae blooms were present along these shoreline areas when we sampled. These areas should be safe for recreational uses.
- Low alert (light green) - these shoreline areas have blue-green algae that produce toxins, but toxin concentrations are currently below levels of concern. These areas are open for recreation, but caution is advised in any areas where dense accumulations or scums are apparent.
- High alert (dark green) - these shorelines have blue-green algae in dense scums, at least in some areas, and toxin concentrations are above levels of concern. The water is not safe for recreational use in areas that contain scums. Please see Department of Health information about beach closings and hazardous areas.