An investigative story by the Democrat & Chronicle in Rochester evaluates the statewide situation with regard to harmful algae blooms.
Blooms have been observed this summer in Seneca, Cayuga, Owasco, Skaneateles, Canandaigua, and Hemlock lakes. Exposure to blue-green algae – what’s been seen locally – can cause a range of symptoms and diseases.
It’s even taken the life of a pet dog.
Officials across the board are reluctant to single out specific sources, or causes of the algae blooms, which are overtaken waterways in the state at an alarming clip.
Last year, New York State dedicated $65 million to study and better understand the source of that algae. The money was thought of as a first-step to fighting the harmful blooms that shut down local lakes until they move out.
There are a number of possible contributors to the rise of these blooms, which includes runoff from farms – and septic systems. However, nothing has been identified as a definite cause.
Read the full-story from the D&C here.
