Blue-Green Algae Found in Montauk Pond

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) reported recently that cyanobacteria (also known as blue-green algae) have exceeded bloom criteria at Fort Pond in Montauk.

Blue-green algae persist at the following locations:

• Wainscott Pond in Wainscott
• Agawam Lake and Mill Pond in Southampton
• Maratooka Lake in Mattituck

Old Town Pond in Southampton, Kellis Pond in Bridgehampton and parts of Lake Ronkonkoma, which were reported to have exceeded bloom criteria on July 17, are currently below bloom criteria levels.

Health officials ask residents not to use, swim or wade in these waters and to keep pets and children away from the area.

Extra precautions should be taken to avoid direct exposure to waters at Agawam Lake, as levels of cyanobacteria and associated toxins in Agawam Lake are very high.

Cyanobacteria are naturally present in lakes and streams in low numbers; however, 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 paint-like appearance.

Contact with waters that appear scummy or discolored should be avoided. If contact does occur, 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.