Beaches Re-Open on Cazenovia Lake After Algae Blooms Clear

The beaches along Cazenovia Lake in Madison County are now open.

According to a written release Geoffrey Snyder, Health Director of the Madison County Health Department, says that swimming at Lakeland Park and Willow Bank Yacht Club may resume following water quality tests and assessment of the water.

Swimming at the two beaches had been prohibited because of the appearance of blue-green algae blooms that have, according to the release, "since cleared."  The beaches reopened yesterday afternoon.

The Madison County Department provides the following information for those who are exposed t the blooms:

"...(R)inse off with clean water.  Exposure to any blue-green algae can cause health effects to people and animals when water with dense blooms is contacted, or swallowed, or when airborne droplets are inhaled."

Symptoms of exposure include the following:

• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• skin irritation
• throat irritation
• breathing difficulties
• allergic reactions

Health officials advise residents and beach operators to be aware of the possibility that the algae will reappear as it "can come and go quickly."  Anyone who sees blue-green algae in the water is asked to call the health department.  The New York State Department of Health can be reached at: (518) 474.2011.