Some cautionary notes...

While pond clarity continues to be excellent, a swimmer yesterday reported a few bright green dots, not many — but these have been visually identified as blue-green algae, potentially harmful cyanobacteria.

A kayak survey of the entire perimiter of the lake did again identify a very small count (5 or 6 dots) on the northern side of the lake. We have found that this form of bloom can be evanescent, appearing for a few hours only.

With a month now passing since the cleanup, the lily pads have fully regrown, showing yellow flowers, and occasional yellowing leaves. The south-east cove (to the left of the Fresh Pond Road entrance remains the area of greatest concern. The lily pads in this zone have developed thick filamentous green algae — which is not harmful, but is a sign of eutrophication (too much phosphorus and nitrogen) in this relatively stagnant area. We have previously identified potentially harmful lyngbya/microsiera behind this area. When in doubt stay out.

Be safe and stick to open clear water!