MDEQ stated in its news release that the closures were for water contact but did not prohibit beach use. MDEQ noted in its news release that a water advisory was issued for a section of the Jourdan River, Hancock County, from the I-10 Bridge to the mouth of river into St. Louis Bay. “MDEQ advises people to avoid water contact, such as swimming, wading and fishing. Until further notice, people should avoid eating fish and any other aquatic species. MDEQ urges people to be aware of their surroundings, and report any HAB in the Mississippi Gulf Coast or other parts of the river to the agency. According to the news release, June 7, an algal bloom refers to the rapid growth and spread of algae on the water’s surface. The algal bloom caused four beaches to be closed by MDEQ on June 22. Now, all beaches along the Coast are closed to water activities for a little more than two weeks. Today’s Sun Herald report noted that blue-green algae is more common in freshwater than red algae (also known as a red tide) in saltwater. Since the Bonnet Carre Spillway was opened May 10, to relieve Mississippi River flooding, freshwater has been flooding the Mississippi Sound. It was only opened once in the 80s, and once in 1990. Since 2008, it has been opened five more times. It has been opened five times since 2008. Today, the spillway is still open. Gov. Gov.