Lake Superior Beach temporarily closed

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BETHEL  – Due to an unhealthy algae bloom, Sullivan County has temporarily suspended swimming and paddleboat rentals at Lake Superior State Park in Bethel.

“Cyanobacteria, better known as blue-green algae, has increased to potentially harmful levels at Lake Superior’s beach, due in large part to the ongoing hot weather,” Parks, Recreation and Beautification Director Brian Scardefield said. “People and animals who come in contact with the algae may develop irritation of the skin, eyes, nose, throat and respiratory tract – or nausea, diarrhea and vomiting if they swallow any of it.”

“After testing by a contractor with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, we agreed with the State Department of Health and the park’s owner, the Palisades Interstate Park Commission, to close the beach and restrict swimming and boating in that area through at least this Monday, August 8,” Scardefield said. “We will continue to daily monitor the water quality and will have an update early next week.”

In the meantime, Lake Superior State Park remains open for picnicking and land-based recreation. Paddleboat rentals will not be available for the duration of the beach closure, due to their proximity to the algae.

If someone is exposed to the algae, they should:

  • Rinse the affected area with clean water as soon as possible
  • Consider medical attention if vomiting or experiencing diarrhea, irritation or breathing difficulties
  • Report symptoms to the State Department of Health (845-794-2045)

For more information, visit www.health.ny.gov/harmfulalgae.

Other swimming locations in the area include public access points along the Delaware River; municipal pools in Bethel, Callicoon, Liberty and Monticello; and resorts such as the Villa Roma, Kartrite and Resorts World Catskills.




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