Blue-Green Algae Bloom on Black Lake

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RochNY
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Blue-Green Algae Bloom on Black Lake

Post by RochNY » Sun Jul 17, 2016 10:07 am

We are into our season of the widespread growth and prevalence of algal blooms. While most blooms are the harmless and important Green Algae, Black Lake does have occasional blooms of Blue-Green Algae. This actually is not algae, but a Cyanobacteria that contains chlorophyll; Cyanobacteria produces its 'food' via photosynthesis just like Green Algae, a true algae does.

The Black Lake Association, participates in the Citizens' Statewide Lake Assessment Program (CSLAP). Our trained Black Lake volunteer, samples our lake every two weeks throughout the warm season and submits those samples to a DEC-certified analytical laboratory. One of the things they test for, is the type of Blue-Green Algae that would signify that there is a Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB). When a HAB (Cyanobacteria) is present they then test for the presence of toxins. Some Blue-Green Algae can, at certain times, and under the right conditions, release very toxic substances into the water. Elevated levels of these toxins can cause illness in humans, pets and livestock.

We received results from our most recent submitted sample which indicated a HAB. Since the blooms occur and disappear quickly and are moved around by wind and wave action the important thing for visitors and residents to know is contained in THIS official DEC statement:

" The sampling results from the shoreline bloom sample at Black Lake, collected on 7/11/2016, confirmed the presence of a Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB), based on blue green chlorophyll a levels of 106 micrograms per liter (well above the DEC HAB threshold of 25-30 micrograms per liter) and a microscopic analysis of Microcystis and Anabaena: two cyanobacteria taxa capable of producing toxins. The toxin results for this bloom are below detectable limits, but subsequent sampling of this bloom may show detectable toxins at a high level which present an elevated risk to people and/or pets exposed to the bloom zone waters.

However, even if toxin levels are low, lake residents and visitors should avoid exposure to surface scums, heavily discolored water, and green streaks or dense concentration of green globs or dots. In addition, people should seek medical assistance if any HAB exposure symptoms (nausea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, rashes….) are experienced, and should contact the local Health Department to report these symptoms."


Avoid areas of ALL algal blooms of all types--they're unpleasant for swimming, waterskiing and fishing. Avoid eating fish caught in a bloom area. The vast area of Black Lake is safe water to fish and swim in--HABs are usually localized and at this time there is no indication of a widespread HAB bloom--that is unlikely. Forewarned is forearmed. Boat safely, enjoy the lake and its fishery, have fun with your friends and family and please come back and share this beautiful resource with our Black Lake family.

Rich Henderson, Board Member of the Black Lake Association, Inc.
President, New York State Federation of Lake Associations, Inc.
Preserve, Protect, Enhance Black Lake Every Day

MrSimon
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Re: Blue-Green Algae Bloom on Black Lake

Post by MrSimon » Tue Jul 19, 2016 2:56 pm

Let me summarize.

You know that algae bloom that happens every single year ..... stay out of it. It will go away in six weeks.

GuidedBassTrips
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Re: Blue-Green Algae Bloom on Black Lake

Post by GuidedBassTrips » Wed Aug 03, 2016 6:40 pm

The very south end of the lake is currently experiencing blue-green algae. The 4 straight days of northeast wind may have played a part and hopefully a south wind will begin to clear it out. As of Tuesday afternoon is was on the cottage side of Mile Arm Bay about half way in, near Back Bay, and near the mouth of the Indian River. It is aqua blue in color with surface scum and foam and looks potentially harmful. It also has an odor. Hopefully it will clear up soon.
Give a starving man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach him how to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.

GuidedBassTrips
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Re: Blue-Green Algae Bloom on Black Lake

Post by GuidedBassTrips » Tue Aug 30, 2016 10:28 am

It looks like the algae bloom is beginning to clear in several areas of the lake. I'm still not clear as to what specifically causes it to dissipate. Whether its finally getting some rain, or wind, or cooler nights, or decreasing daylight levels. I feared this year it was going to last well into September, but hopefully not.....What is really ironic, is how clear the water was this year in May and June. The clearest I've seen it in a long time.
Give a starving man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach him how to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.

mitchr
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Re: Blue-Green Algae Bloom on Black Lake

Post by mitchr » Thu Sep 01, 2016 10:14 am

Thank you for posting this update. I had posed the question in the other forum section about whether or not it was safe fishing on the lake right now as we are coming up on the 9th. It sounds like the conditions are starting to get better which hopefully will improve even more over the next 10 days.

Please keep us updated as to how the HAB and general water conditions improve.

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Re: Blue-Green Algae Bloom on Black Lake

Post by Phil » Thu Sep 01, 2016 11:45 am

IMO - The HAB conditions on Black Lake should not drive your, or anyones, decision on when to come to the lake for some great experiences.
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RochNY
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Re: Blue-Green Algae Bloom on Black Lake

Post by RochNY » Thu Sep 01, 2016 12:31 pm

Phil is absolutely right! The lake is huge and while folks need to be cognizant of HABs and how to protect themselves, their families and pets, the simple solution is to just stay out of a bloom when you see it. At no point was the entire lake covered with dense algae. We're very fortunate to have a lake with good flow (from the river and creeks that feed into it). In addition, most days have wind that mixes the water and enhances the currents. The wave action alone when it gets vigorous enough can dissipate a bloom or cause it to move lower in the water column. Vacation time is precious and if I told you to avoid stepping on zebra mussel shells so you don't cut your feet, that would be no reason NOT to come and enjoy a vacation at the lake. Same with avoiding algal blooms...just cautionary advice that should in no way hinder your vacation at Black Lake. Rain storms, cooler nights, winds and time are rapidly improving water clarity and recreational conditions. Enjoy, I know I will next week!
Preserve, Protect, Enhance Black Lake Every Day

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