WSSC Water Issues Recreational Water Contact Health Advisory for T. Howard Duckett Reservoir

Laurel, Md. – September 8, 2022 – WSSC Water has detected high concentrations of blue-green algae in the T. Howard Duckett Reservoir and has issued a recreational water contact health advisory for the reservoir’s recreation areas. The advisory issued on July 14, 2022, for the Triadelphia Reservoir also remains in effect. High concentrations of blue-green algae can cause serious health effects if contacted. The reservoirs, located along the Patuxent River in Montgomery, Howard and Prince George’s counties, serve as drinking water sources for WSSC Water and recreational areas for hiking, fishing and boating.

It is important to note that WSSC Water’s drinking water is not affected and continues to meet all Safe Drinking Water Act standards. As a precaution, WSSC Water is closely monitoring water quality conditions at its Patuxent Water Filtration Plant.

Visitors to WSSC Water’s Triadelphia and T. Howard Duckett Reservoirs should:

• Avoid all recreational water contact. If water contact occurs, rinse off immediately with clean water.
• Not allow pets to swim in or drink the water (prohibited at all times by WSSC Water watershed regulations).
• Not consume fish livers or digestive organs from fish caught in the reservoir. If a fish is caught in the reservoir, wash fillets thoroughly with drinking water.
• Be aware of signs posted throughout the reservoir’s recreational areas to alert visitors to this water contact health advisory.

If you, your pet, or someone you know has come in contact with or ingested water at either reservoir call your local Health Department:

• Montgomery County: 240-777-0311 (Montgomery County 311)
• Prince George’s County: 301-883-4748 (Prince George’s County 311)
• Howard County: 410-313-1773 (Community Hygiene Department)

For more information on algal blooms, visit WSSC Water’s Algal Blooms page.