BOISE -- A popular pond at Esther Simplot Park reopened Thursday, two weeks after the discovery of a blue-green algae bloom.
The City of Boise said the cyanobacteria in Esther Simplot Pond No. 1 was discovered early, and testing revealed it was not producing toxins. Crews treated the algae, eliminating it.
The pond, which is the larger of the two ponds in the park and includes the children’s beach area, had been closed since the algae was discovered July 19 out of "an abundance of caution," the city said.
“We are pleased to have Esther Simplot Park Pond No. 1 back open for recreation,” said Boise Parks and Recreation Director Doug Holloway. “We are currently working closely with the city’s Public Works team on a long-term water quality plan to help reduce algae growth in the future.”
The city will continue to naturally treat the water in both park ponds, as well as nearby Quinn's Pond, to keep the algae from growing. Water aerators will be added to all three ponds to stimulate movement, and two pumps have been installed in Esther Simplot Park Pond No. 1 to re-circulate the water.
Blue-green algae can sometimes produce toxins that are dangerous for people and pets, and is not uncommon in Idaho ponds and waterways, especially during the hot summer months.
The city frequently monitors water quality in Esther Simplot Pond and Quinn’s Pond, and will conduct daily water quality tests in the ponds for the rest of the summer.
