High levels of toxic algae found in Champlain

BURLINGTON — A University of Vermont scientist says tests have found the highest concentrations of potentially toxic blue-green algae in Lake Champlain in seven years.
The sample taken from Highgate Springs along the Canadian border contained more than 940,000 potentially toxic cells per milliliter of water as well as high concentrations of a toxin released by the algae.
UVM’s Mary Watzin, who leads the blue-green algae monitoring program on Lake Champlain, says the level is “quite concerning.”
A decade ago two dogs died after ingesting large amounts of algae from the lake.
Watzin says anyone using the lake should avoid areas with dense accumulations of algae.
Watzin said she hopes cooler weather will help bring the algae season to a close.