Summer is here and we just can’t wait to dip our toes in the water! Sadly, we won’t be doing that at New Jersey’s largest lake any time soon. There’s a dangerous algae bloom at Lake Hopatcong and here’s what you need to know…

Lake Hopatcong is the largest freshwater body in New Jersey, spanning about 4 square miles between Sussex and Morris Counties.
Stephen Harris/Flickr
It is a popular destination for swimming, jet skiing, fishing, sun bathing, and boating, but officials warn that we should not even touch the water. Why?

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A dangerous blue green algae bloom (not seen in this photo) known as cyanobacteria has invaded the water!
Stephen Harris/Flickr
With a heavy amount of rain and high temperatures, conditions are ideal for the bacteria to thrive. It may last for weeks and can cause skin rashes upon contact. If the water is ingested, you may experience flu-like symptoms. The bloom is so bad this year that the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection took the unprecedented action of issuing a lake-wide advisory against entering, or even touching, the water until further notice. This applies to both humans and pets.

While the lake is open, kayaking, swimming, paddle boarding, and any activity that may involve contact with the water are cautioned against. Boating is generally considered safe, however. If you choose to fish - do not eat anything that you catch.

To see some of the bloom for yourself, check out the video below by NJ.com.

Some experts believe that the lake will be off limits for the entire summer season. If this is the case, there are alternatives available. Nearby options include Lake Marcia in Montague and Shepherd Lake in Ringwood. You may also want to check out Sunrise Lake in Morris County (click here) or 9 of New Jersey’s best swimming holes (click here).

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