MOUNT MORRIS, N.Y., July 12, 2024 - The Livingston County Department of Health issued a Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) Advisory for Conesus Lake on June 21, 2024 and has since issued updates based on current conditions. Based on surveillance performed on July 12, 2024, the lake wide HAB advisory remains in effect. HABSs continue to accumulate nearshore depending on wind direction and situated primarily along the easterly shoreline. People and animals should keep out of the water where blooms are present and avoid suspected areas. The public water supply is safe for drinking.
HABs can turn the water green and form thick scums on the water surface. Some HABs may produce toxins that are harmful to people and animals. HAB exposure can cause diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting, skin, eye, or throat irritation, and allergic reactions or breathing difficulties.
HABs can disappear and form quickly. Be aware of what HABs look like and avoid them. To learn what HABs look like, use the links below.
The Department of Health recommends taking the following precautions:
- Don’t swim, wade, boat, or fish near suspect HABs;
- Don't eat fish caught from waters with suspect HABs;
- Don’t drink or cook with untreated lake water;
- Rinse with clean water if exposed; and
- Children and pets are more susceptible to the effects of HABs; take extra care to keep them out of waters with suspect HABs.
Report symptoms that may be associated with exposure to your medical provider.
For more information, or to report a HAB, contact the Department of Health at 585-243-7280 or email the Watershed Inspector at dmaryanski@co.livingston.ny.us.
Learn more about HABs at:
- https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/water/drinking/bluegreenalgae/
- https://dec.ny.gov/environmental-protection/water/water-quality/harmful-algal-blooms
Please share this information with other people in the area who may not have received this notice directly.