Myers Park swimming area reopens after closing because of harmful algal bloom
Matt SteeckerThe Myers Park beach has been reopened for swimming after being shut down because of the presence of harmful algal blooms.
Previously, the Town of Lansing issued a notice stating there would be no swimming at the beach until further notice. That restriction has since been lifted.
Several harmful algal blooms have been previously reported in Cayuga Lake over the course of the summer.
The Tompkins County Health Department urges residents and visitors to beware of blue-green algae. These blooms can occur in any calm body of water and may produce toxins that are harmful to people and animals.
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Do not drink the water and avoid contact with the water if it appears discolored or has an unpleasant odor.
If contact occurs with suspicious blue-green algae:
Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove algae. Rinse dogs that may have gone in the water so they do not lick their coats. Stop using water and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, skin, eye or throat irritation, allergic reactions or breathing difficulties occur after drinking or having contact with blooms or untreated surface water.
Report any harmful algal bloom-related health symptoms to the state Health Department by email to harmfulalgae@health.ny.gov. Or call the Tompkins County Health Department at 607-274-6604.
If you see a suspicious bloom, stay out of the water and report the sighting to the state Department of Environmental Conservation at HabsHotline@gmail.com.
Fill out and submit a Suspicious Algal Bloom Report Form. Email HABSInfo@dec.ny.gov if you are unable to complete the form.
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