Water levels on Seneca Lake have dipped well below summer targets, sparking concerns for boaters, shoreline property owners, and environmental stewards. This week’s lake reading came in at 445.34 feet — about six inches lower than the summer low goal and nearly at wintertime levels.
The Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association says it’s a combination of lower rainfall, summer evaporation, and controlled outflows through the Seneca-Cayuga Canal. Officials say conditions mirror what the region saw in 2020.
Tracking lake health and harmful blooms
One harmful algal bloom (HAB) was reported between August 29 and September 4. Surface water temperatures hovered around 70°F, with turbidity at 0.83 NTU and dissolved oxygen at 107.6%.
The group reminds residents to stay alert for signs of HABs — including green swirls, surface scum, and pea soup–like water — especially in calm, shallow areas. Suspicious sightings can be reported to the DEC or emailed directly to [email protected].
Annual meeting and volunteer recognition next week
The Pure Waters Association will host its Annual Meeting on Thursday, September 11 at The Oasis @ Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards in Hector. The event will celebrate volunteers, highlight new conservation efforts, and provide updates on programs protecting Seneca Lake.
Topics include hemlock protection, stream flow monitoring, and shoreline sampling. Social hour starts at 5 p.m., with the meeting to follow at 6. Admission is free, and a virtual option will be available.
Spotted lanternflies and invasive threats
Spotted lanternflies are becoming more visible around Seneca Lake. Residents are encouraged to report sightings, remove egg masses, and help identify and manage their favorite host — the tree-of-heaven. More guidance is available from NYS Ag & Markets and Cornell.
The mystery of the ‘Seneca Drums’
A long-running local legend — the mysterious “Seneca Drums” — may have a scientific explanation. Researchers say natural gas bubbles and collapsed salt caverns in the lakebed could be behind the booming sounds. New findings are available through the 2019 Bathymetric Survey Report and recent WENY coverage.
Coming up this weekend and beyond
- Drumstock Music & Arts Festival: Pure Waters will host an info table at this Saturday’s event in downtown Geneva. Stop by to learn more and connect.
- NYSFOLA Western Regional Conference: Set for Saturday, October 25 at The Woods in Naples. The event will focus on lake science, protection strategies, and community collaboration.
Support lake protection efforts
So far, nearly $12,000 has been raised for the Sediment, Nutrient, and Pollution Reduction (SNPR) Program — including a full match on the first $5,000. A second match is in progress, and first-time donations are still being doubled. The campaign ends soon.
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