Hello LSC.

We'd like to let you know about a program created by the Federation of Vermont Lakes and Ponds (FOVLAP) to monitor for cyanobacteria on all VT Lakes & Ponds.

So, we are looking to connect with folks from Lake St. Catherine and other local water bodies to attend a class presented by FOVLAP to teach you how to become a cyanobacteria monitor. You do not need a boat, or any special equipment.

From the Vermont Health & The Environment website on Cyanobacteria:

"Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, are naturally found in fresh water in the U.S. and in Lake Champlain and other Vermont waters. Some types of cyanobacteria can release natural toxins or poisons (called cyanotoxins) into the water, especially when they die and break down."

You can click here to learn more about Cyanobacteria.

Last season, there was a brief bloom of Cyanobacteria that appeared in the channel from Halls Bay. The bloom was quickly identified and the Vermont DEC dispatched a crew to contain it.

If you would be interested in attending this presentation, please email us at info@lakestcatherine.org. If we have enough interest, FOVLAP will schedule the seminar. It would be great to have residents around the lake trained in identifying Cyanobacteria so any possible future blooms can be quickly identified and contained.

Info about the program can be seen in the image below.

Thank you!