11/3/2023:
As a result of blue-green algae (or cyanobacteria) blooms, the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM) are advising people to avoid contact with Tiogue Lake (Briar Point Beach). All recreation, including swimming, fishing, boating and kayaking should be avoided. People should not ingest water or eat fish from the lake. Pets can also be affected by exposure to the algal toxins and thus owners should not allow pets to drink or swim in the water. The advisory will remain in effect until further notice.
People are advised to avoid contact with waterbodies that exhibit bright green coloration in the water or at the water surface and/or dense floating algal mats that form on the water's surface. The water may look like green paint, thick pea soup, or green cottage cheese. For more information and current advisories, consult RIDEM’s website: www.dem.ri.gov/bluegreen.