Hazardous Algae Bloom (HAB) Advisory for Budd Lake
On May 12, 2026, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) identified a Harmful Algae Bloom (HAB) in Budd Lake. Water samples showed algae cell counts exceeding New Jersey's Health Advisory Guidance Levels. It's important to note that this analysis does not reflect the overall water quality of Budd Lake.
In response, the Mount Olive Township Health Department has posted advisory notifications at public access points around the lake. To protect your health, residents and visitors should:
- Avoid primary contact with the water, such as swimming.
- Exercise caution during secondary recreational activities, such as non-contact boating.
- Do not ingest the water and prevent pets and livestock from doing so.
- Refrain from eating fish caught in the lake.
Contact with the water could potentially lead to allergic reactions, including respiratory irritation, skin rashes, and eye irritation.
The Health Department will continue to conduct visual inspections for HABs and is collaborating with Aquatic Analysts, Inc. and the NJDEP to safeguard public health. This advisory will remain in effect until water analysis confirms that Budd Lake meets New Jersey's Action Levels for algae.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Mount Olive Township Health Department at (973) 691-0900, ext. 7330.
For more Information regarding Hazardous Algae Blooms, please visit the following link: https://dep.nj.gov/hab/.