Potential Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) at Park Lake

Potential Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) at Park Lake

Please be advised that late on August 7, 2025, Rockaway Township was made aware of a potential harmful algal bloom or (HAB) at Park Lake. Officials don’t yet know the extent of the algal bloom, and as further testing is being conducted, current information is being utilized for guidance.

Out of an abundance of caution, residents are advised not to swim or allow pets in the water at this time. Residents are also advised not to consume lake water or fish caught in the lake. Fishing is permitted, but officials advise residents to wash their hands or any other part of the body that comes into contact with lake water. Other areas of the lake’s recreation facilities will remain open and are safe to use.

Notifications regarding this potential algal bloom have been physically posted around the lake, and Township officials are working closely with our partners in Rockaway Borough to ensure residents of the Rockaways are aware of this advisory. Harmful algal blooms are not uncommon in northern New Jersey and typically occur when freshwater lake ecosystems are affected by unusual weather patterns or a high volume of nutrients.

Township residents will be notified of any developments via the Rockaway Township website, social media, and posted signage in the lake area as more/changing information is received. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

For more information about harmful algal blooms and the State’s system of HABs notifications, see this website.