Pontoosuc Lake in Pittsfield safe to swim in again

PITTSFIELD, Mass. (NEWS10) -- According to the city of Pittsfield, Massachusetts, Pontoosuc Lake is safe to swim in again. A public health advisory was issued on September 18 after observations had confirmed the presence of a blue-green algae bloom in the lake.

The city said this bloom may have harmful health effects for lake users, like irritation of the skin, eyes, or ears, gastrointestinal problems, muscle cramps, and in extreme cases, nerve or liver problems. However, after recent samplings of the lake, the advisory is no longer in effect as of Monday.

The city says it will regularly monitor the lake's conditions and will issue more advisories in the future if necessary. For more information or questions about this situation, call the Pittsfield Health Department at (413) 499-9411.