Stratford officials warn of harmful algal bloom in Brewster and Longbrook Ponds

STRATFORD, Conn. (WTNH) — Warning signs will be posted at Brewster and Longbrook Ponds regarding a harmful algal bloom found in both bodies of water, the Town of Stratford announced Friday.

Residents and their pets should avoid any contact with the water — including touching, swallowing, or inhaling tiny droplets.

Stratford Health Director Andrea Boissevain said that if any person or animal comes into contact with the water, the exposed area should be rinsed off with clean water.

The blue-green algae bloom, also known as cyanobacteria, looks like spilled paint and will appear with a surface scum, according to Kelly Kerrigan, the Stratford environmental conservation supervisor.

The algae can become harmful in warmer waters and when exposed to high nutrient concentrations. Kerrigan noted