APCC Cyanobacteria Testing

No concerning cyanobacteria results at the time and place of sampling. To the best of our knowledge and based on our monitoring results, regular recreational usage of the pond is safe with respect to cyanobacteria and toxins. Map color is blue. Formerly the Low Warning Tier.

Monitoring results at the time and place of sampling indicate either moderate risk for potential exposure to cyanobacteria toxins or a likelihood for higher cyanobacteria risks in the near future. While these conditions pose low health risks to adults, risks are higher for children or pets, particularly if contaminated water is incidentally ingested. Children may inadvertently consume pond water while swimming and pet exposure can result from directly drinking pond water or from grooming after swimming. Due to lower body masses, children and pets are more susceptible to cyanobacteria risks than adults. APCC will recommend to the contracting partner (either town or private association) that APCC be authorized to increase testing frequency to weekly of ponds in this category until conditions improve. Samples may be sent to the Barnstable County lab for toxin analysis as well. A town may, at its own discretion, post a “Pet Advisory”, however practices differ in each town. Map color is yellow. Formerly the Moderate Warning Tier.

Monitoring results at the time and place of sampling indicate a high risk for potential exposure to cyanobacteria toxins, based on one or more of the following criteria: 1) exceedance of microcystin according to MDPH guidance, 2) presence of cyanobacteria scum layers according to MDPH guidance, or 3) a municipal health agent issues a closure for any other reason related to cyanobacteria. Recreational risk to adults is moderate following exposure. Recreational risks are especially high for children and pets following exposure through accidental ingestion of contaminated water. Children may inadvertently consume pond water while swimming and pet exposure can result from directly drinking pond water or from grooming after swimming. Due to lower body masses, children and pets are more susceptible to cyanobacteria risks than adults. A “Use Restriction Advisory” has been recommended for public access points. Map color is red.