Harmful algal blooms are found in North Country waters and can be dangerous.
State Health Commissioner, Dr. James McDonald, reports that the “algal blooms can cause health effects in both people and pets.” The harmful blooms vary in appearance from scattered green dots to long, linear green streaks in the water. They can be the color of pea soup, blue-green or white. The Health Department encourages people to avoid contact with water that is discolored or has scum on the surface. The DEC has set up online reporting for suspected blooms. It’s available on the department’s website.