(Putnam County Health Department photo)
CARMEL – Last year Putnam County’s 267 lost beach days due to algae blooms constituted 27 percent of all beach closures in New York State. This year’s numbers are even higher.
The blue-green algae epidemic returned with a vengeance in June, July and August closing beaches not only during the 4th of July weekend but the Labor Day weekend celebration as well.
Putnam County Health Department sanitarian Shawn Rogan said the fact that the county’s health department was not being mean-spirited by closing the beaches during the summer’s oppressively hot days, “We were being protective to make sure our residents and guests remained safe.”
Over the Labor Day weekend, 10 beaches were shuttered because of algae blooms including Warren Beach on Putnam Lake; Jackson Beach on Putnam Lake; Beaches 2, 3, 4 and 7 along Lake Carmel; Lake Casse Beach in Mahopac; Carraras Beach along Lake Peekskill; Singers Beach in Lake Peekskill and North Beach in Putnam Valley.
Blue-green algae results from nutrients in the water such as nitrogen and phosphorus that feed the algae. Rogan said the increase of incidents is a direct result of “impacts to the water bodies from nutrients being deposited in area lakes from failing septic systems, run off from storm water and fertilizers people use in their yards which are all contributing factors to the epidemic.”
Blue-green algae can result in various health concerns. Rogan said skin irritations are common. “If a child ingests the water, he or she may develop serious cases of vomiting or diarrhea. There are also inhalation concerns related to blue-green algae. A person seated on the beach may be exposed to wave action from a motor boat or even the wind. These aerosolized toxins result in inhalation concerns.”
Commissioner of Health Dr. Michael Nesheiwat reminded the public that potential health impacts include irritation of the skin, eyes, nose, throat and respiratory tract while swallowing water containing an algae bloom often results in nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
“When a person is exposed to a blue-green algae bloom, he or she must rinse off with clean water immediately while considering medical attention for any symptoms associated with the exposure including breathing difficulties,” said Dr. Nesheiwat.
County Executive MaryEllen Odell had advice for the public. “When you suspect that an algae bloom is located in your family’s favorite swimming locale, find another venue in which to swim.”
Rogan also suggested that residents learn how to “self-identify” for green algae. “The Health Department cannot be in all places at all times. The important message here – Identify it; avoid it and call the health department.”
Rogan also reminded pet owners to be concerned about Fido entering water containing blue-green algae since dogs and other mammals can become ill when exposed to the blooms that may look like streaks, spilled paint, pea soup, floating clumps or dots.
