Herring run count plummets to 50; cyanobacteria spreads to four ponds
Orleans water monitors reported plummeting herring counts and spreading cyanobacteria. Vice Chair Richard Levy said the 2026 herring count at the local run totaled 50 fish, down from 495 in 2025, with statistical analysis expected to estimate the actual population at around 1,000. Chair Carolyn
Marine & Fresh Water Quality Committee · Meeting of June 29, 2026
Orleans water monitors reported plummeting herring counts and spreading cyanobacteria. Vice Chair Richard Levy said the 2026 herring count at the local run totaled 50 fish, down from 495 in 2025, with statistical analysis expected to estimate the actual population at around 1,000. Chair Carolyn Auty reported cyanobacteria detections in four ponds: Cedar Pond, Uncle Harvey's Pond (health advisory posted then lifted), and Crystal Lake and Baker Pond (health warnings posted).
Health Agent Meredith Ballinger distinguished between health warnings, which do not require closure, and health advisories, allowing stricter restrictions. The Marine and Fresh Water Quality Committee unanimously authorized Auty and member Mary Griffin to draft a revised committee charter.
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Source: the Marine & Fresh Water Quality Committee meeting of June 29, 2026, compiled from the official minutes.
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