FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – 4/14/2025
For further information, contact:
Susan Scully Petroni
City of Framingham Public Information Officer
spetroni@framinghamma.gov
508-782-8629
City of Framingham Water Quality Testing Protocols For City’s Lakes & Beaches
FRAMINGHAM - The Framingham Health Department continues to monitor and address water-quality issues related to cyanobacteria blooms at both Lake Cochituate and Lake Waushakum, adhering to Commonwealth of Massachusetts standards.
Last year, the Conservation Department conducted bi-weekly cyanobacteria testing as part of the CPC-funded treatment feasibility study.
The bi-weekly testing was conducted to gather valuable data to inform the feasibility study for alum treatment, a potential method for improving water quality.
However, it’s important to note that using algaecides is not a long-term solution for cyanobacteria blooms.
Algaecide treatment is not a preventative treatment method for cyanobacteria blooms, according to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.
Cyanobacteria blooms occur as a result of specific environmental and ecological conditions – with heat and excess phosphorus being the primary drivers in Massachusetts water bodies.
Algaecide treatments will temporarily reduce the cyanobacteria concentration but won’t help prevent future blooms as the treatment does not impact the underlying conditions which are causing the bloom in the first place.
"While algaecides can provide temporary relief, they do not address the root causes of cyanobacteria blooms. Long-term solutions focus on improving water quality and preventing conditions that lead to these blooms,” said City of Framingham Conservation Agent Rebecca Nau.
The bi-weekly testing will not continue this year, said the City of Framingham.
To ensure public safety, the Framingham Health Department adheres to strict water quality monitoring guidelines.
In order for the City to operate bathing beaches on Lake Waushakum, Lake Cochituate, and Learned Pond, the Parks & Recreation Department must apply for a permit with the Framingham Department of Health and adhere to mandated E.Coli testing.
Water samples are collected weekly for E. Coli testing, with no single sample exceeding 235 colonies per 100 ml.
The geometric mean of the most recent five samples within the same bathing season must not exceed 126 colonies per 100 ml.
Oftentimes, if the E.coli is high, it is re-tested the same week to achieve the required geometric mean.
E.Coli testing is required only during the time permitted by DPH ( typically Memorial Day – Labor Day)
While routine testing for cyanobacteria is not required by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH), the department takes action whenever a visible cyanobacteria scum or mat is observed. Pictures are taken and submitted to MDPH, which then provides guidance on whether a Public Health Advisory should be posted. If a cyanobacteria bloom dissipates, two samples must be taken at least one week apart. If the cyanobacteria count is below 70,000 cells per milliliter, the advisory may be lifted.
Deputy Health Director Robin Williams emphasized the importance of proactive measures to reduce cyanobacteria blooms, stating, "The best means of reducing the occurrence of cyanoHABs is through preventative measures – primarily effective watershed management. Excess nutrients are one of the main drivers of cyanoHABs, so strategies to reduce nutrient inputs to water bodies are critical. This includes maintaining septic systems and storm drains, reducing fertilizer applications, picking up pet waste, and maintaining native vegetation around water bodies."
The Framingham Health Department is committed to improving water quality and safeguarding public health through continued monitoring, education, and the implementation of best practices for watershed management.
Conservation questions can be directed to Conservation Administrator Nau at RN@FraminghamMA.gov.
Beach operation questions can be directed to Superintendent of Recreation, Elaine Prue at EIP@framinghamma.gov
Health & water quality testing questions can be director to Deputy Director Williams at rwilliams@FraminghamMA.gov
To receive alerts on beach openings and closures due to e-coli or cyanobacteria, sign up for the City’s Beach alert notification system. Register your email or phone number or both at Notify Me • Framingham, MA • CivicEngage
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