Cyanobacteria and what you need to know

MOULTONBOROUGH — Join the Lake Winnipesaukee Association, the Moultonborough Conservation Commission, and UNH Lakes Lay Monitoring Program on Tuesday, July 12 for an informative talk on cyanobacteria in our lakes and ponds. The talk will be held at the Moultonborough Public Library from 3-4 p.m.

Blooms of potentially toxic cyanobacteria have been happening more frequently around the country and locally in NH. This is a threat not only to human and animal health, but to our local economy as well. Cyanobacteria (often referred to as blue-green algae) are a natural component of New Hampshire waterbodies, and are important organisms for the health and growth of many plants. However, certain cyanobacteria produce toxins that can affect the nervous, liver, and endocrine systems if ingested in large enough quantity.

The presentation, ‘Cyanobacteria and What You Need to Know’, will feature Dr. Amanda McQuaid, water quality specialist, professor of water auality and ecotoxicology, and director of the Lakes Lay Monitoring Program at the University of New Hampshire. The Lake Winnipesaukee Association will also discuss their work to not only assist the State and UNH in the identification and reporting of potential cyano blooms, but to educate landowners on actions they can take to be lake-friendly and reduce nutrient loading to our waterbodies.

Learn about the types of cyanobacteria, current management options, and what you can do to help minimize blooms and keep Winnipesaukee healthy.

If you see an algal bloom or water quality issue, contact the Lake Winnipesaukee Association at 603-581-6632 or mail@winnipesaukee.org.