Posted in Maine Nature May 09, 2022 by Michelle

These 6 Lakes In Maine Are At Highest Risk For Toxic Blue-Green Algae

If you’ve been keeping up with the news you’ve likely heard about the number of pets who have been killed by exposure to harmful algae found in places like North Carolina and Texas. While it’s seemed like this would be relegated to other parts of the country, Maine has a high probability of joining the list of states affected by it. Many lakes in Maine see algae blooms every year and officials are closely watching our waters to make sure residents are aware of any blooms that become toxic.

The toxic blue-green algae that we've been hearing so much about is actually called "Cyanobacteria" and it thrives in warm water. This warmer water is typically seen here in the summer, which is why reports of it typically happen in the warmer months. Remember what this bacteria looks like when you're checking for toxic algae in Maine.

Many lakes and rivers have seemingly foreign objects and foam floating in them. Most of these things are harmless. But the algae that can cause illness is known by its blue-green color.

And you’ll want to avoid it wherever you can, especially if you’re with children or pets.

While the algae has been spotted in Maine lakes in the past, this year no lakes or ponds have been put on advisory just yet. However, officials have rated the waterways in the state based on their likelihood of having it before the summer's end.

6 Maine lakes have been reported as having algae blooms "often" and risk is "high."

Coming into contact with the toxic algae can cause rashes, skin irritations, and even some gastrointestinal illnesses. You'll see these symptoms even more severely in children and pets.

Officials typically urge folks to be mindful of any standing bodies of water. Always do a check for discolored water or "froth" that has a bluish color to it before you swim or come into contact with water.

If contact is made, be sure to wash it off with clear and fresh water as soon as possible. You might be worried if you run into toxic algae in Maine, but there won't be any long-term problems to worry about if you wash it all off right away.

Remember that fish can also be affected. If you fish in any water that might be affected by the blue-green algae, be sure to clean the it well before cooking at a high temperature.

To keep track of the Maine lakes at highest risk of cyanobacteria advisories, check out the official state website here.

If you’ve been affected by any of the algae blooms this summer, we’d love to hear your experience. Tell us about it in the comments below.

Address: Annabessacook Lake, Maine, USA

Address: Cross Lake, Square Lake, ME 04779, USA

Address: Georges Pond, Franklin, ME 04634, USA

Address: Sebasticook Lake, Newport, ME 04953, USA

Address: Trafton Lake, Limestone, ME 04750, USA

Address: Webber Pond, Vassalboro, ME 04989, USA

The OIYS Visitor Center

Lakes in Maine

May 14, 2022

Danielle Schwartz

What are the most beautiful lakes in Maine?

There are lots of beautiful lakes in Maine– so many, in fact, that you’ll want to make more than one trip to see them all! Some of the most striking lakes include the peaceful Sabbatus Pond, found in Androscoggin County, Jordan Pond, located in lovely Acadia National Park, and gorgeous Moosehead Lake in Piscataquis County. There’s no wrong choice when it comes to lakes in Maine. Whether you choose to check them out in the warm months, go ice skating in the winter, or enjoy the autumn foliage surrounding the bodies of water, you’ll be very glad you made the trip.

Which state parks should I visit in Maine?

With so many state parks in Maine, it may seem difficult to choose which to head to first. If you like a peaceful, quiet feeling when you head to the great outdoors, you will love Peaks-Kenny State Park on Sebec Lake. It has a limited number of campgrounds, so if you decide to stay overnight, you’ll be able to enjoy a nice, tranquil atmosphere. You can also go to Quoddy Head State Park in Lubec for a unique experience. This is the easternmost point of land in the United States, so it’s a special place to be able to say you’ve been!