The Livingston County Department of Health on Tuesday issued a harmful algal bloom advisory for Conesus Lake.
Why was the advisory issued, what it means
Widespread blooms were observed in multiple locations on both the eastern and western shoreline of Conesus Lake, according to county health officials.
People and animals should keep out of the water where blooms are present and avoid areas where blooms were spotted.
What about the public water supply?
Health officials said that the “public water supply is safe for drinking.”
More about harmful algal blooms
Harmful algal bloom can turn the water green and form thick scum on the water surface, according to Livingston County health officials.
Harmful algal blooms can disappear and form quickly, according to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
HABs are likely triggered by a combination of water and environmental conditions such as:
Some algal blooms can produce toxins that are harmful to people and animals. Exposure can cause diarrhea; nausea or vomiting; skin, eye or throat irritation and allergic reactions; or breathing difficulties.
Precautions
From the DEC:
Livingston County’s Department of Health recommended the following precautions:
Children and pets are more susceptible to the effects of harmful algal blooms, so be aware to keep them out of waters with suspected algal blooms, according to county health officials.
To report a harmful algal bloom
In Livingston County, contact the Department of Health at (585) 243-7280 or email the Watershed Inspector at donmaryanski@livingstoncountyny.gov.
Statewide, report it to the DEC using a Suspicious Algal Bloom Report Form. Include photos if possible. For more, HABsInfo@dec.ny.gov.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Harmful algal bloom advisory issued for Conesus Lake
Reporting by Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Victoria E. Freile, New York Connect Team | USA TODAY Network
