Study: Suffolk has state’s most blue-green algae in fresh water

A new concern for pet owners on Long Island involves a dangerous algae bloom lurking in some waters.

News 12 Staff

Aug 30, 2019, 11:13 AM

Updated 1,736 days ago

Share:

A potentially dangerous algae has been detected in Long Island waters.
Dr. Christopher Gobler, a professor at Stony Brook University says Suffolk consistently tops the state's list of the most cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae, in its fresh bodies of water.
Dr. Golber joined News 12's Danielle Campbell at Agawam Park in the village of Southampton where the lake there resembled pea soup.
According to Dr. Gobler, the algae is created by warmer water temperatures and the presence of nitrogen and phosphorus in the water.
He says the algae blooms "can make toxins that are a human health threat. It can also be harmful to animals, specifically pets."
Earlier this month, three dogs in North Carolina died just hours apart after playing in a pond tainted with the toxic bacteria.
News 12 is told there were 10 dogs across the country this month that have died from the blue-green algae.
Several state and county officials have been searching for ways to help solve the water quality issue.
Suffolk County and New York state have secured grant money for residents who install nitrogen-reducing septic tanks in Southampton Village. Newly elected Mayor Jesse Warren has put together a task force to deal with Agawam Lake.

Officials warn people should not touch any discolored green water and wash their hands and pets after any exposure.
Read more about harmful algae blooms that can be dangerous to people and animals here


More from News 12
2:16
Nassau police commissioner warns Cricket World Cup attendees not to illegally park in nearby neighborhoods

Nassau police commissioner warns Cricket World Cup attendees not to illegally park in nearby neighborhoods

1:43
Sensational Saturday ahead, chance for showers Sunday evening

Sensational Saturday ahead, chance for showers Sunday evening

2024 Cricket World Cup on Long Island - Special Coverage

2024 Cricket World Cup on Long Island - Special Coverage

0:51
Patchogue woman pleads guilty to running over, killing Brentwood anti-gang activist in 2018

Patchogue woman pleads guilty to running over, killing Brentwood anti-gang activist in 2018

1:50
WWII, Korean War veteran laid to rest on LI nearly 60 years after his death

WWII, Korean War veteran laid to rest on LI nearly 60 years after his death

0:49
Town of Huntington renames street in honor of longtime East Northport resident

Town of Huntington renames street in honor of longtime East Northport resident

1:52
Police: 2 people arrested after weapons, cannabis found in Smithtown smoke shop

Police: 2 people arrested after weapons, cannabis found in Smithtown smoke shop

0:28
Police: Man wanted for questioning in connection to fatal Huntington Station hit-and-run

Police: Man wanted for questioning in connection to fatal Huntington Station hit-and-run

0:30
Police: 2 Hempstead men arrested for robbery at Roosevelt Field Mall

Police: 2 Hempstead men arrested for robbery at Roosevelt Field Mall

2:22
Village of Northport kicks off Pride Month with flag raising

Village of Northport kicks off Pride Month with flag raising

2:08
East Meadow dance group brings Polynesian culture to Long Island

East Meadow dance group brings Polynesian culture to Long Island

0:26
Police: Farmingville man killed in motorcycle crash in Smithtown

Police: Farmingville man killed in motorcycle crash in Smithtown

0:45
Former President Donald Trump responds to his guilty verdict

Former President Donald Trump responds to his guilty verdict

2:40
Planting Fields Arboretum hosting Long Island Orchid Festival this weekend

Planting Fields Arboretum hosting Long Island Orchid Festival this weekend

1:56
Food Truck Friday: Nao Caribbean Flavors

Food Truck Friday: Nao Caribbean Flavors

1:48
The Real Deal: Summer travel trends and how to save money on your next vacation

The Real Deal: Summer travel trends and how to save money on your next vacation

2:07
Long Islanders, elected leaders react to former President Trump's guilty verdict in hush money trial

Long Islanders, elected leaders react to former President Trump's guilty verdict in hush money trial

1:59
Amityville school board formally eliminate approximately 13 positions

Amityville school board formally eliminate approximately 13 positions

Is your dad awesome? Long Island tell us why your dad rocks!

Is your dad awesome? Long Island tell us why your dad rocks!

1:32
Father’s Day Gift Ideas: Exclusive Deals – Up to 50% OFF!

Father’s Day Gift Ideas: Exclusive Deals – Up to 50% OFF!