Jamaica Pond Water Activities Shut Down After Algae Bloom

BOSTON (AP) — Jamaica Pond has been temporarily closed to water activities because of a suspected algae bloom.

The Boston Public Health Commission said Monday that the blue-green algae, known as cyanobacteria, can produce toxins that make people and pets sick.

Park visitors are urged to avoid contact with the water and any areas where the algae is concentrated, even on shore.

While the pond is closed, visitors should not swim, boat or engage in other recreational activities on the water, and dogs should not be allowed to swim in or drink the water.

State health and environmental officials have taken water samples from the pond.

They will continue doing so each week while the algae bloom persists and for several weeks after it is no longer visible.