News Summary
A health alert has been issued for Sprague Pond in Boston due to a significant bloom of cyanobacteria, posing serious health risks for humans and pets. The Boston Public Health Commission reports that this has turned the pond a greenish color, indicating the presence of harmful algae. The pond is now closed to the public, and residents are advised to avoid contact with the water and rinse off immediately if exposure occurs.
Boston – A health alert has been issued for Sprague Pond due to a significant bloom of cyanobacteria, which poses serious health risks for both humans and pets. The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) has reported that this bloom has caused the pond to exhibit a greenish color, indicating the presence of harmful algae.
Direct contact with the water can result in skin and eye irritation, while inhalation of water droplets contaminated with cyanobacteria may lead to respiratory issues and exacerbate existing respiratory conditions. Drinking contaminated water can cause acute gastrointestinal symptoms, including vomiting and diarrhea. More critically, if toxins are present in the cyanobacteria, severe health effects may arise particularly in children and small animals, including risks of liver, kidney, and neurological dysfunction. In extreme cases, ingestion of these toxins can be fatal.
As a precautionary measure, the pond is now closed to the public to prevent any health hazards associated with the cyanobacteria bloom. Local residents and pet owners are strongly advised to rinse off with clean water immediately if they or their pets come into contact with the pond water.
Background on Sprague Pond
Sprague Pond, located between Boston and Dedham, is classified as one of the city’s two officially designated “great” ponds, a status it regained in 2021 after undergoing environmental restoration efforts. This designation marks the pond as a significant natural resource and recreational area within the Greater Boston region.
In 2023, the Boston Parks and Recreation Commission used eminent domain to procure 1.2 acres of land adjacent to Sprague Pond, enhancing public access to this vital natural area. The acquisition cost the city approximately $940,000, with part of the funding coming from a $387,000 state grant. This site bears historical and cultural significance as it is close to the former Meigs Field Army base and other historical industrial sites. Additionally, remnants of early rail construction, specifically a steam engine linked to the initial main line to New York dating back to 1834, are believed to exist near the pond.
Ongoing Monitoring
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) is actively involved in monitoring cyanobacteria levels in Sprague Pond. They are working diligently to ensure the safety of public health as they keep track of this hazardous situation.
Residents are encouraged to remain cautious, stay informed, and reach out for further guidance regarding the health alert. For more information, individuals can contact the Mayor’s Health Line at 617-534-5050.
This health alert serves as a reminder of the importance of water safety and the potential hazards that may arise from environmental changes. Local authorities are committed to addressing this issue and will provide updates as they become available.
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HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Boston 25 News
- Wikipedia: Cyanobacteria
- Boston.com
- Google Search: cyanobacteria health risks
- Massachusetts Government
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Algae
- East Bay Times
- Google News: cyanobacteria algae bloom
Author: STAFF HERE BOSTON WRITER
BOSTON STAFF WRITER The BOSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBoston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Boston, Suffolk County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Boston Marathon, Head of the Charles Regatta, and Boston Harborfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Massachusetts, plus leading businesses in finance, biotech, and insurance that power the local economy such as Fidelity Investments, Biogen, and Liberty Mutual Insurance. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Massachusetts's dynamic landscape.
