HAB (Harmful Algal Blooms)

The DEC’s data of archived HABs

DEC HAB reporting form.

The following was Created By: Adirondack Watershed Institute

Blue-Green Algae

Nov. 11, 2022 — BEWARE!
AVOID CONTACT WITH MIRROR LAKE
& DO NOT LET YOUR DOGS SWIM IN THE
LAKE OR DRINK OUT OF THE LAKE.

On Monday, October 31 a Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) of cyanobacteria, aka blue-green algae, was identified in Mirror Lake.  It was widespread and still visible as of Nov. 2.  Although it seems to have dissipated, the toxins can remain in the water for several days afterward, and exposure to the water by humans or pets could still cause serious, allergic reactions. 

The HAB may have caused problems for a person and her dog as recently as Wednesday, Nov. 9.  Lake water with cyanobacteria present can be toxic and even fatal to dogs who drink or swim in it even after it is no longer visible.  If you or your dog should come in contact with Mirror Lake water, rinse yourself and your pet thoroughly as soon as possible. 

For more information about HABs, see recent articles in the Lake Placid News and the Adirondack Daily Enterprise. 

Blue-green algae
Blue-Green Algae

If you see a HAB, please use the reporting form to submit a report to NYHABS. Because waterbodies may have HABs that have not been reported to DEC, we recommend avoiding contact with floating mats, scums and discolored water.

Harmful Algal Bloom Notifications 

HABs pic with boat

DEC’s harmful algal bloom (HABs) notification season has begun. HABs notifications will be updated through the fall using an online reporting and notification system dubbed NYHABS. The system includes an interactive map that shows reports of freshwater HABs, as well as a public reporting system. Instructions on how to use NYHABS are on DEC’s HABs notification page.

Know it:  If you see a HAB, please use the reporting form to submit a report to NYHABS.

Avoid it:  Because waterbodies may have HABs that have not been reported to DEC, we recommend avoiding contact with floating mats, scums and discolored water.

Report it: If you, your family, or pet have been in contact with a HAB, please rinse with clean water and report any symptoms to your local health department. 

How to Report a Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB)

Anyone can report a HAB. If you suspect you have seen a HAB, please report it to DEC.

  • Fill out and submit aSuspicious Algal Bloom Report Form. DEC requires your contact  information (email and name) in the form but will not post this information to NYHABS.  
  • Submit at least one digital photo of the suspected HAB with the form. Ideally, DEC would like to receive one close-up and one landscape photo to show the extent and location of the bloom. 
  • EmailHABsInfo@dec.ny.govif you are not able to complete the form.

Report any health symptoms to NYS Health Department atharmfulalgae@health.ny.govand your local health department.