Owasco Lake, one of New York's Finger Lakes, faces increasing threats from harmful algal blooms (HABs), primarily driven by nutrient runoff and warming waters. Local agencies and volunteers monitor water quality through regular sampling and satellite imagery. When HABs are detected, data is reported to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), which issues public advisories to protect residents and wildlife. Timely alerts help manage recreational use and drinking water safety. Community engagement, combined with scientific monitoring, plays a crucial role in reducing nutrient pollution and understanding HAB patterns, ensuring the long-term health of Owasco Lake’s ecosystem. 

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DEC HABs Reporting Guide

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For more information on Harmful Algal Blooms, please visit the Cayuga County Health Department's website: https://www.cayugacounty.us/742/Harmful-Algal-Blooms

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