June Algae Bloom – UPDATED

[June bloom, Part 2] We have an update for you. On Monday June 23, I (Stephanie) identified a bloom in the lake as pollen. At that time, pollen was all I saw under the microscope. On Tuesday and Wednesday this week, the bloom formed near Kiwanis, the dam, and near the slalom course. Algal cells were apparent using a microscope this time, and we were able to collect samples and get them to Maggie (who spoke at last year’s annual meeting) at Lakes Environmental Association (LEA) in Bridgton. She has identified this bloom as primarily the Chrysophyte Uroglena. Chrysophytes are known for their golden pigments and producing a fishy odor, hence the odd color of this bloom.

Good news: It’s not Cyanobacteria and can’t produce toxins.

Bad news: It’s still an algae bloom.

Why did it happen? There are so many variables that could cause this, high phosphorus in the lake being the main thing, and possibly a few warm sunny days after a cool rainy spring and/or lots of pollen breaking down in the lake, we can’t really say. The bloom will dissipate, if it hasn’t already. Please do not hesitate to reach out here or to the WLA directly if you see something you want us to check out. Everyone is an observer.

[June bloom, Part 1] Have you noticed that the lake water doesn’t look very clear lately?

Pine pollen in the lake is affecting water clarity in a big way. On Monday (June 23), we heard there was an algae bloom on the southwest side of the lake. After sampling and identification under the microscope, we’ve determined that this is pollen floating in clouds just below the surface, mimicking an algae bloom. Hopefully this settles out and the water clears up soon!

As always, reach out if you see anything suspicious.