WSSC Water has issued a recreational water contact health advisory for the Triadelphia Reservoir after detecting high concentrations of blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria.
The harmful algal bloom can cause adverse health effects, including skin irritation and rashes. The advisory is expected to remain in effect for at least one month.
Located along the Patuxent River in Montgomery and Howard counties, the reservoir serves as both a drinking water source and a recreational area for hiking, fishing and boating.
WSSC Water says its drinking water is not affected and continues to meet all Safe Drinking Water Act standards. The utility is closely monitoring conditions at its Patuxent Water Filtration Plant as a precaution.
Recreation areas remain open, and boating and fishing are permitted. Visitors should rinse any part of the body that comes into contact with reservoir water using drinking water. Fish caught in the reservoir may be consumed, but WSSC Water advises against eating the liver or digestive organs. Fillets should be washed thoroughly with drinking water. Pets should not be allowed to swim in or drink the reservoir water, which is prohibited at all times under WSSC Water watershed regulations.
A separate water contact health advisory issued July 21 for the T. Howard Duckett Reservoir also remains in effect. That reservoir is located along the Patuxent River in Montgomery, Prince George’s and Howard counties.
Anyone who comes into contact with or ingests reservoir water may contact the appropriate county office:
Montgomery County: 240-777-0311
Prince George’s County: 301-883-4748
Howard County: 410-313-1773
WSSC Water will continue monitoring water quality and will lift the advisory when concentrations fall below advisory thresholds.
