Monponsett Pond - Algae Test Results - September 18

On Monday, September 18th, MassDEP collected water samples from East and West Monponsett Ponds.  MassDEP analyzed the samples between September 19-20th.  The East Monponsett sample, collected at the Rt 36 boat ramp in Halifax showed a cyanobacteria level of 1,553 cells/ml.  The West Monponsett Pond samples showed cyanobacteria levels of 9,899 cells/ml at the 4th Avenue Beach and 42,749 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 for West Monponsett Pond be lifted. The results above for West Monponsett Pond will be considered the first low samples, and MassDEP plans on sampling at the water body again next week. We recommend that the current advisory for West Monponsett Pond remain in place for now. Result: West Monponsett remains closed until at least September 29. East Monponsett remains open.