The City of Dover,in cooperation with the NH Department of Environmental Services, today released an important closure notice for residence and visitors that use Willand Pond. On June 11, 2009, UNH Professor Jim Haney collected water samples from the boat launch area located at Willand Pond. His samples indicated an elevated cyanobacteria cell concentration. Samples revealed that the state standard of 50% or greater of the total cells from the bloom was identified as cyanobacteria.

According to Christopher Parker, Director of Planning and Community Development in Dover, based upon these result, the City and State have decided to issue a cyanobacteria warning for those who recreate on Willand Pond. While this warning is not based on a toxin evaluation and is intended as a precautionary measure for short term exposure, the agencies want to take the issue seriously based upon the bloom experienced two years ago.

“Professor Haney indicated that he was interested in the concerntration of cyanobacteria cells in the pond after reading about blooms in other parts of the state, stated Parker.” The levels indicated by the sample Professor Haney collected show the potential for a bloom and he will be retesting the pond on Monday, June 15, 2009. “Professor Haney indicated to me that this might be a localized instance, and does not necessarily indicate a long term closure of the pond” Parker stated.

Jody Connor of the NHDES watershed assistance section noted that the “Cyanobacteria is a naturally occurring bacterium and can be found in many water bodies in New Hampshire, and is not unique to Willand Pond.”

Both the City and DES advise residents to avoid contact with the water in areas experiencing elevated cyanobacteria cell conditions, typically where lake water has a surface scum or blue-green flecks. This advisory extends to pet owners as well, as pets are most susceptible the toxins contained within the cells.

Until further notice, people should avoid contact and ingestion of Willand Pond water. Pets are especially susceptible to the bacteria and should not be allowed to enter or drink from the pond at this time.

Additionally, people who fish the pond are encouraged to catch and release the fish, and not consume them.

For further information please contact John Carlson, the City of Dover Health Officer at (603) 516-6038