Blue green-algae blooms have returned to Cazenovia Lake — but this year the blooms are here much, much earlier than last year. Algae blooms have been appearing more frequently in our lake since 2013, although they typically have been occurring in late July and August. The fact that they have now appeared in mid-June is disappointing, and makes us fear this may be a summer of blue-green algae blooms and interrupted swimming. Because of this, we feel it is important to reiterate the state Department of Environmental Conservation’s list of items to know about blue-green algae and how to stay safe when blooms occur:
✓People, pets and livestock should avoid contact with water that is discolored or has algae scums on the surface. Colors can include shades of green, blue-green, yellow, brown or red. If contact does occur, rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove algae.
✓If you see it — avoid it.
✓Never drink untreated surface water, whether or not algae blooms are present. Untreated surface water may contain other bacteria, parasites or viruses, as well as cyanotoxins that could cause illness if consumed.
✓People not on public water supplies should not drink surface water during an algal bloom, even if it is treated, because in-home treatments such as boiling, disinfecting water with chlorine or ultraviolet, and water filtration units do not protect people from HABs toxins.
✓Stop using water and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, skin, eye or throat irritation, allergic reactions or breathing difficulties occur after drinking or having contact with blooms or untreated surface water.
✓Report any health symptoms to your physician and state Department of Health at [email protected] or your local health department.
✓If you suspect that you have seen a blue-green algae bloom or you, your family or pet has been in contact with a bloom, report the bloom to the DEC. Fill out and submit a Suspicious Algal Bloom Report Form (dec.ny.gov/docs/water_pdf/suspalgformedit.pdf). Email the completed form and, if possible, attach digital photos (close-up and landscape to show extent and location) of the suspected bloom to [email protected].
