Harmless Green Algae Tinges Local Waters

Strange tastes recently noticed in the water at several University dining halls were due to an algae condition in the Cambridge reservoir. The contamination reached its height last week, but has reoccured periodically since.

According to William H. Weston, Professor of Cryptogamic Botany, the algae are not dangerous, but are "darned unpleasant."

He explained that whenever there is a period of rapid thaw after a cold spell, the growths, which look like a green slime on the surface of the water, multiply at a tremendous rate.

Cambridge Water Superintendent William H. McGinnes said that the condition in the reservoir was first noticed in February, just after a warm week. He said that the Department of Health investigated immediately, but found the algae not dangerous to health. They do, however, cause bad odors and tastes.