Milton is asking residents to stay away from Turner's Pond after a harmful algae bloom was reported at the 26-acre pond off Central Avenue.

The town issued a public health advisory Wednesday, July 22, warning people not to swim, wade, fish, or have any contact with the water. Residents should also keep pets away from the shoreline and avoid touching any algae or scum that collects along the banks.

Swimming is already prohibited at Turner's Pond, but the new advisory expands the warning to all water contact because of concerns about cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae.

Cyanobacteria naturally occur in lakes and ponds, but under certain conditions they can multiply into large blooms that turn water green or create surface scum. The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection says it is impossible to tell by appearance alone whether a bloom is producing harmful toxins—only laboratory testing can confirm that.

Exposure can cause skin and eye irritation, stomach problems, and, in more serious cases, liver or neurological effects. Young children and pets face the greatest risk, especially dogs that may drink contaminated water or lick algae from their fur.

Pet owners should contact a veterinarian immediately if a dog exposed to the pond shows symptoms such as vomiting, drooling, loss of coordination or seizures.

The advisory will remain in place until water testing shows the bloom has dropped below state safety thresholds. Milton has not announced a timeline for additional testing or when the warning may be lifted.

Residents who see possible algae blooms in Milton water bodies can report them to the Board of Health. The state maintains a list of active cyanobacteria advisories here.