Harmful Blue-Green Algae Reported Locally

Harmful blue-green algal blooms are starting to crop up on several area bodies of water.

The state Department of Public Health is advising folks to steer clear of Crystal and Pilgrim lakes in Orleans, Park Pond in Barnstable, Queen Sewell Pond in Bourne,

Ashumet and Santuit ponds in Mashpee, and Capaum, Head of Hummock, Maxcy, Miacomet, Sesachacha and Washing ponds on Nantucket.

Residents should also keep their dogs away from the water until toxin levels decrease and officials sound the all-clear.

(Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)