"Owasco Lake is called the region’s “canary in the coal mine” for harmful algal blooms, which threaten swimmers, pets and some local drinking water supplies."
"AUBURN, N.Y.—Blooms of toxic cyanobacteria “exploded” across the Finger Lakes this worst-ever season, as Seneca, Canandaigua, Skaneateles and Cayuga lakes each had more than 100 reports of harmful algal blooms, or HABs.
The outbreaks began in June—earlier than ever—and continued through late October. Swaths of streaky green water were widespread, plaguing the lakes for weeks at a time during the season’s peak in September.
“We have had days (in previous years) where the whole lake was ‘lit up,’ but not day after day like this year,” said Bill Roege, president of Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association.
Seneca Lake reported 325 blooms this year, while Canandaigua reported 237, Skaneateles 145 and Cayuga 120, according to the Finger Lakes Regional Watershed Alliance."
Peter Mantius reports for Water Front October 23, 2024.
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