Harmful Algae Found In Pond In Huntington Bay

Residents are asked to stay away from the waters of Willow Pond in Huntington Bay after blue-green algae was discovered.

Health officials ask residents to not go in the waters and to keep their pets and children away from the area.
According to the Suffolk County Department of health, recent sampling performed by SUNY Stony Brook confirmed cyanobacteria blooms, known as blue-green algae, in the pond.

Blue-green algae is naturally present in lakes and streams in low numbers, but they can become abundant, forming blooms in shades of green, blue-green, yellow, brown or red. The algae may also produce floating scums on the surface of the water or may cause the water to take on paint-like appearance.

The algae can cause a variety of ecological problems, such as reduced oxygen levels, the New York DOH reports.

The DOH advises residents to avoid contact with waters that appear scummy or discolored.

In case contact is made:

• Rinse off with clean water immediately.
• 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 report a suspected blue-green algae 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. – 4:30 p.m. or by email at any time at scdhsweb@suffolkcountyny.gov

Images via Suffolk County Department of Health Updates