Water Quality Update for August 20, 2021

Welcome to your Friday Water Quality Update!

So far this week: • 33 surveys performed • 5 suspicious blooms reported this afternoon (Friday 8/20)

This afternoon, we received 5 reports of streaking of cyanobacteria (blue green algae) in the northern section of the lake. Volunteers are reporting areas of light surface streaking and suspended algae in the water column (“dots in the water”). We wanted to make the public aware that the calmer, sunnier conditions may allow for concentrations of cyanobacteria to accumulate in isolated areas along the shoreline, or even out on the lake.

The recent intense rain events on Wednesday evening and Thursday morning (Hurricane Fred) have resulted in high water levels and areas with reduced clarity. While Canandaigua Lake does not have an active boating advisory in effect issued by the Sheriff, we strongly encourage boaters to use caution with their wake and to be aware of the potential for floating debris and tree limbs that may have washed into the lake. The southern end of the watershed experienced more runoff therefore has a higher potential for debris. Neighboring Finger Lakes like Keuka, Seneca, and Cayuga were also hit hard by these storms and have seen areas with significant flooding and damage to shorelines.

Now that we’ve had a few bloom reports come in this afternoon, conditions may be right for more observations of cyanobacteria in the coming days, so please continue to use your visual indicators to look for signs of active bloom conditions. As recommended by the DEC, if you see it, avoid it.

If you have a question on a suspected bloom, please feel free to send in a photograph to HABs@canandaigualakeassoc.org. This email address is monitored by CLWA and Canandaigua Lake Watershed Council staff. We may be able to assist with identification though a clear photograph.

Volunteers and watershed staff will be continuing daily observations throughout August and September and we will communicate any significant changes in bloom activity through our weekly email updates, on our website, and on the Associations facebook page.

Enjoy your weekend!