(WKBW) — The Chautauqua Lake Association (CLA) says it is concerned about an increase in harmful algae blooms (HAB) activity on Chautauqua Lake.
“It appears that the significant HAB activity is in the south basin of Chautauqua Lake,” said Doug Conroe, executive director for the CLA.
According to CLA officials, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) confirmed multiple reports of harmful algae blooms on Chautauqua Lake. The NYSDEC collected multiple samples in random locations across the lake.
Most of the algae blooms are located in the southern half of Chautauqua Lake. Blue-green algae is naturally present in lakes. Streams and creeks that are rich with nutrients, warm water and sunshine encourages blue-green algae growth. Algae forms floating mats that look like green pea soup.
Harmful algae blooms form near the shorelines.
