HARRIMAN – If you were planning to picnic or go swimming at Lake Welch Beach and Picnic Grounds in Harriman State Park this holiday weekend, you will have to find an alternative spot. The state has closed the area until further notice due to a harmful algal bloom that has affected all of Lake Welch.
The lake’s public boat launch has also been closed until further notice.
The closures are necessary to protect public health and safety, the state parks department said.
The algal bloom was first observed on Saturday, June 26 and confirmed the following day. A significant bloom remained visible in the lake on Thursday.
Under state health regulations, a swimming beach must be free of any visible signs of a bloom for a day, and a water sample must be submitted for toxin analysis before it can reopen.
Due to the holiday weekend, many parks may reach capacity early and close to incoming visitors, so the state parks department advises people to have a plan ready to head to a different park or consider postponing their visit for another day.
