Rhode Island DEM lifts restrictions for swimming areas impacted by algae blooms

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management announced Tuesday its lifting restrictions for popular swim spots in the state that were put in place last month.

Officials said they’re recommending lifting the restrictions on recreational activities at Boone Lake in Exeter and Slacks Reservoir in Greenville.

The advisory was initially sent out because of high levels of blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria.

Recent tests indicate that blue-green algae is present but at acceptably low levels. Cyanotoxin is not present in the samples, officials said.

To report suspected algae blooms, contact the RIDEM’s Office of Water Resources at 222-4700 or DEM.OWRCyano@dem.ri.gov.