Blue-Green Algae In Little Compton's Watson Reservoir

LITTLE COMPTON, RI — Gardiner Pond has tested positive for dangerous blue-green algae levels, the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOT) announced Friday.

While Watson Reservoir is a drinking water source maintained by Newport Water, it is not currently being used to deliver drinking water to customers.

"People are advised to avoid contact with water bodies that exhibit bright green coloration in the water or at the water surface and/or dense floating algal mats that form on the water's surface," Public Information Officer Joseph Wendelken said. "The water may look like green paint, thick pea soup, or green cottage cheese."
Anyone who comes in contact with the water should rinse their skin with clean water, bathe and wash their clothes. If a pet touches or drinks the water, it pet should be washed with clean water.

Seek medical attention for any of the following symptoms. Symptoms include loss of energy, loss of appetite, vomiting and/or diarrhea.

The most recent information on beach closings is available through a recorded message on RIDOH's beach telephone line at 401-222-2751.

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