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Public questions town’s algal‑bloom notices; staff says watershed partners notified and further tests scheduled
Summary
During public comment residents asked whether the town would send notice about a recent harmful algal bloom. Town staff said the 30‑Mile Watershed alerted the town and that the town circulated the message; state testing and an additional clarity test were scheduled later in the week.
Residents raised questions during public comment about recent algal‑bloom conditions at a local swimming area and whether the town had notified the public.
The town manager said the town had received a notice from Lydie Robbins of the 30‑Mile Watershed and that she had relayed the information to the public. Staff referenced an earlier notice that the waterbody reached full algal‑bloom status on Aug. 15, and they said state testing (including a Secchi clarity test) was scheduled for later in the week to determine current conditions.
A member of the public asked whether the town would issue email blasts or website notices for the public; the manager confirmed that she had sent out the watershed’s notice and that staff would continue to post updates. Town officials said that if state clarity testing shows levels below the public‑health threshold the town will publicize the result and guidance for residents.
The select board did not take any formal action at the meeting on this item; town staff are monitoring test results and distributing alerts from the watershed and state authorities as they are received.
