Sadly, the Blackwater River in Webster had a confirmed sample with cyanobacteria this past summer. This is believed to be the first river report in New Hampshire’s history. These bacteria are present in many waterbodies. When one or more circumstances is present, such as warm, shallow water receiving abundant sunlight, the few organisms can become many and cause a bloom. In the case of the Blackwater, the advisory has since been lifted but the state’s proactive work is needed. The New Hampshire Rivers Council worked with NH House Rep. Rosemarie Rung to support HB1066, creating a legislative study commission. The legislation was revised to create the Cyanobacteria Plan Advisory Committee, which assists the NH Department of Environmental Services’s development of coordinated approaches to cyanobacteria blooms. The New Hampshire Rivers Council is a member of the Committee and will continue to be a stalwart advocate for our rivers. To learn more, visit the Committee website by clicking here.
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