ITHACA, N.Y. — Summer is prime time to be out on central New York’s lakes, but one recurring problem is putting a damper on the season: harmful algal blooms.
These harmful algal blooms, often referred to as HABs, have been causing temporary beach closures and raising health concerns for people and pets across the region. At Taughannock Falls State Park, the swimming beach has already been closed three times this July alone due to suspected blooms.
Walter Hang, president of the Environmental Health Research Group, says it’s a widespread issue with deep roots.
“These harmful algal blooms are basically Cyanobacteria,” Hang explained. “They bloom when there’s too much phosphorus and nitrates draining into the water. It’s like fertilizing your lawn — except you’re fertilizing the bacteria.”
According to Hang, nearly 200 lakes and waterways in New York have reported blooms this year. Cayuga Lake is near the top of the list with the most confirmed cases.
The recurring nature of these blooms is changing how some locals interact with the water.
“This year I saw some reports,” said a Cornell student visiting the lake. “So I’m more cautious when hanging out with friends. Like today, I brought my paddle, but I just don’t want to get in the water now.”
While state and local agencies monitor water conditions and issue alerts, advocates say those efforts aren’t addressing the root cause.
“Absolutely not,” Hang said, when asked if enough is being done.
So what would a real solution look like? Hang says it starts with stopping the nutrient pollution at its source.
“You got to keep that nutrient pollution out of the tributaries that drain into these critical bodies of water,” he said. “And you can do that by just planting shrubby willow along the edges of the fields. It prevents the stormwater from polluting the streams — and ultimately the lakes. It’s incredibly low-cost and it’s been done all over the country.”
In the meantime, the Department of Environmental Conservation urges New Yorkers to avoid swimming in water that looks green, scummy, or has an unpleasant odor. Residents can also report suspected blooms on the DEC website.
Whether a long-term fix is coming remains to be seen. For now, central New Yorkers will have to keep an eye on the shoreline.