Algal Bloom Closes Mount Arlington Beach

MOUNT ARLINGTON, NJ — Mount Arlington beach on Lake Hopatcong is closed due to algal blooms, Borough officials said.

The closure was announced on Monday, and further testing was done on Tuesday. The beach remains closed as of Thursday morning. Park goers should not have any contact with the water, including swimming, wading, water sports, and drinking. Any fish caught in the bloom should not be eaten, and pets should be kept away from the water.

Updates on the beach's status will be posted on the Mount Arlington Borough Facebook page.

Harmful algae blooms happen when cyanobacteria overproduces in a lake. In the right situations (sunlight, hot and calm waters and high nutrients) the bacteria can cause a bloom that's toxic to humans and animals. The blooms are fairly common in North Jersey lakes, but it is unusual to see the blooms this early in the season.

Several other beaches along Lake Hopatcong, and a beach along the lake in Swartswood State Park have also been closed due to algal blooms so far this season.