Monponsett Pond - Algae Test Results - October 2

On Monday, October 2nd, MassDEP collected water samples from East and West Monponsett Ponds.  MassDEP analyzed the samples between October 2-4th.  The East Monponsett sample, collected at the Rt 36 boat ramp in Halifax showed a cyanobacteria level of 307 cells/ml.  The West Monponsett Pond samples showed cyanobacteria levels of 14,544 cells/ml at the 4th Avenue Beach and 18,489 cells/ml at the state boat ramp.  These sample results are below the MDPH guideline level of 70,000 cells/ml. According to MDPH guidelines, samples collected a week apart with levels below the guidelines are required before MDPH can recommend that the advisory be lifted. The results above will be considered the first low samples, and MassDEP will sample at the water body again next week. We recommend that the current advisory remain in place for now. Result: East Monponsett Pond is open. West Monponsett Pond is closed until at least October 12.