New Blue-Green Algae Found In Hamptons Pond

BRIDGEHAMPTON, NY — New cyanobacteria blooms, known as blue-green algae, were found in Kellis Pond in Bridgehampton, the Suffolk County Department of Health said Friday.

Earlier this week, blue-green algae was found in Old Town Pond in Southampton and Mill Pond in Water Mill.

Analysis of surface water samples performed by SUNY Stony Brook confirmed the presence of the new cyanobacteria blooms; health officials have asked residents not to use, or swim or wade, in the water and to keep 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. They may produce floating scums on the surface of the water or may cause the water to take on a paint-like appearance, the DOH said.

Contact with waters that appear scummy or discolored should be avoided. If contact does occur, rinse off with clean water immediately. People should seek medical attention if symptoms occur after contact, including nausea, vomiting or diarrhea; skin, eye, or throat irritation; or allergic reactions or breathing difficulties.

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.

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 by calling 631-852-5760 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. or by emailing scdhsweb@suffolkcountyny.gov.