Blue-Green Algae Found In East Hampton, Southampton

EAST HAMPTON, NY — New cyanobacteria blooms, known as blue-green algae, have been found in both Lake Agawam in Southampton and Wainscott Pond in East Hampton, according to the Suffolk County Department of Health.

Analysis of surface water samples performed by SUNY Stony Brook confirmed the presence of new cyanobacteria blooms in both water bodies. Due to the findings, health officials have asked residents not to use, swim, or wade in the waters and to keep their children and pets away from the area.

Though blue-green algae are naturally present in lakes and streams in low numbers, they can become abundant, forming blooms in shades of green, blue-green, yellow, brown, or red, the SCDOH said. They may produce floating scums on the surface of the water or may cause the water to take on paint-like appearance, the DOH added.

Contact with waters that appear scummy or discolored should be avoided. If contact does occur, rinse off with clean water immediately, the DOH said. Individuals are advised to seek medical attention if any of the following symptoms occur after contact: nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea; skin, eye, or throat irritation; or allergic reactions or breathing difficulties.

To view a map of all affected freshwater bodies in New York State, or to report a suspected blue-green algae bloom to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation at a body of water that does not contain a Suffolk County permitted bathing beach, click here NYHABS.

To report a suspected blue-green algae to bloom at a body of water that does contain a Suffolk County-permitted bathing beach, contact the Suffolk County Department of Health Services’ office of ecology at 631-852-5760 between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or by email at scdhsweb@suffolkcountyny.gov