The Upper Saranac Foundation urges watershed users to be on the lookout for harmful algal blooms (HABs). A HAB is an overgrowth of algae in the waterbody that can affect water quality and aquatic life. Some HABs produced by bacteria can create toxins that may harm people, animals and the environment.
In the Upper Saranac watershed, HABs typically develop in September and October when the waters begin to mix, causing nutrient-rich water from the lake’s bottom to rise to the surface. Last week, Lake Clear, located just upstream and a tributary of Upper Saranac Lake, confirmed the presence of HABs. These blooms also tend to occur during periods of calm wind, warm temperatures, and high solar radiation.
What should you do if you see a possible HAB?
Know it. HABs vary in appearance from scattered green dots in the water to long linear green streaks, pea soup, or spilled green paint, to blue-green or white coloration.
Avoid it. Stay away from the water when you suspect a HAB is present. WHEN IN DOUBT STAY OUT!
Report It. Report it: If you suspect you have seen a HAB, please report it to the DEC or the USF Lake Manager lakemanager@usfoundation.net. Fill out and submit a Suspicious Algal Bloom Report Form.
Prevent it. You can help reduce the chances of a bloom. While climate change is an emerging factor in HAB formation, we also know that excessive nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen that fuel plant growth are a major cause of these blooms. The Foundation is committed to curbing the influx of these nutrients into our water bodies, which is crucial for slowing down the process of eutrophication. Enhancing water quality begins with actions on land, such as properly managing septic systems, reducing or eliminating lawn fertilizers, and improving stormwater management practices.
For more information about HABs, visit the USF’s webpage at: https://usfoundation.net/programs/harmful-algal-blooms-habs/
Photos from Lake Clear taken in the last two weeks:
