Even as overnight temperatures dip into the 20s, harmful algal blooms (HABs) are still being spotted on Cayuga Lake — raising concerns and curiosity among scientists and residents alike.
The Community Science Institute (CSI), which monitors water quality across the region, confirmed two new HAB sightings on October 29: one near Romulus and another in Ithaca, on opposite sides of the lake. These late-season blooms are unusual but not unheard of.
“Believe it or not, harmful algal blooms are still showing up on Cayuga Lake,” CSI posted on social media, noting that last year’s final report came on October 28, though some blooms likely appeared into November without being reported.
CSI is urging the public to continue reporting suspected blooms as they appear. Community input helps researchers track patterns and better understand how and why these blooms persist into colder months.
Anyone who sees a potential HAB can submit a report using CSI’s online form: https://forms.gle/v2NDXNHjEcnPhDva7.
“Community awareness makes a difference,” CSI said, encouraging residents around the lake to stay alert and share updates with neighbors.
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