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May 11 , 2006
Sassasfras River: Early season evidence of Blue-green (Cyanobacteria) algal blooms.

A water sample collected on May 9 from the Chesapeake Bay long-term water quality monitoring station located on the Sassafras River provided early season evidence of bloom conditions. A diversity of blue-green algae species was found dominated by species of Anabaena (63,500 cells per milliliter Anabaena planktonica ) and Aphanizomenon (35,560 cells per milliliter). Counts for Microcystis , commonly the dominant summer bloom species, were low by comparison (351 cells per milliliter).  

Blue-green algae (Cyanobacteria) species

Cells per milliliter

Anabaena planktonica  

63,500

Anabaena circinalis

300

Aphanizomenon sp.

35,560

Aphanocapsa sp.

12,700

Microcystis sp.

351

Pseudanabaena sp.

20,257

Rhabdoderma lineare

10,160

Maryland Department of Natural Resources will continue to actively monitor and report on the condition of the river. Citizens are advised to take common precautions around bloom waters to reduce the possible risk of illness or discomfort related to blue-green algal blooms:

  • The public should not swim in areas where a blue-green algae bloom is evident.


  • Do not drink water from any area with the appearance of a blue-green algae bloom.


  • If contact is made with problem water, simply wash off with fresh water.
    In some cases, skin irritations may occur after prolonged contact. If irritations persist, see a physician or local health care provider.


  • Keep pets and livestock away from bloom areas.
    Blue-green algal blooms may contain toxins that could be harmful or fatal to pets and livestock.


  • Do not eat viscera (internal organs) of fish caught in bluegreen bloom waters.


  • Inhalation exposure to blue-green algal bloom waters may result in irritation of the eyes, ears, nose and throat with extended recreational activity on such waterways.

Please note that illness associated with harmful algal blooms is now a reportable illness so physicians should be reporting these to local health departments. The MD DNR in coordination and cooperation with DHMH and MDE will continue to monitor all blue-green algal blooms throughout the state. For up to date information on all of Maryland's harmful algal blooms and water quality, please visit Eyes on the Bay