ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) – A Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) has been reported in Cayuga Lake.
The Community Science Institute (CSI) reported the first bloom of the season Apr. 23 near Harris Park in the village of Cayuga.
An analysis of the sample confirmed the presence of a HAB, with “abundant Microcystis species observed.” It’s the earliest algal bloom on record, though CSI only began recording data in 2018. The non-profit organization says early blooms are not unprecedented, but it’s a reminder that conditions can shift quickly.
Boaters and hikers are advised to avoid and report anything that resembles a bloom. Exposure to a HAB can cause illness in humans and severe health issues in animals, including death.
CSI is recruiting volunteers to survey the lake and local streams as part of its annual monitoring program, which runs from June 1 through Oct. 31.
Learn more about HABs from the NYS DEC here.
