An algae bloom has blossomed again at Lawson Lake and local officials are prohibiting fishing and other water related activities from 420-acre park.
Albany County Executive Daniel McCoy issued an advisory Tuesday, Aug. 26, that a blue-green algae has developed in the water body, which is located in Lawson Lake County Park. The algae bloom is mostly concentrated in the middle and southwest portion near the beach. Fishing and non-contact water activities are prohibited at the lake until the bloom clears.
County officials said the bloom naturally grows at the lake because of the shallow, nutrient rich water, along with hot weather spurring its occurrence. Typical conditions of the bloom may pose health risks to people and pets. Consuming fish from the lake is not recommended.
“It’s important that people and animals be aware of the algae blooms at Lawson Lake,” McCoy said in a prepared statement. “As in the past, nature will take its course and with cooler weather the blooms will die off. … There are hiking trails and many other recreational activities for residents to enjoy at the park.”
County officials are working with the state Department of Environmental Conservation to place signage warning of the algae bloom. Swimming is not allowed at the lake, regardless of the algae.
A similar advisory was issued last August warning of an algae bloom at the lake.
Anyone who experiences symptoms associated with exposure — vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, allergic reactions or breathing difficulties — should immediately get away from the water and seek medical attention if needed.
Anything coming in contact with the lake is recommend to be rinsed off with clean water and soap. Pets should avoid the water, too.