Rondout Creek Algae Bloom as observed by Clearwater
There are confirmed reports of active Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) in the Hudson River, including a significant bloom from Kingston to Hyde Park, with additional blooms documented in Beacon, Tivoli, Hudson, and on the Wallkill River and Rondout Creek. HABs are uncommon in the Hudson River, and this is the largest bloom researchers at Cary Insitute have observed in nearly 40 years of monitoring the Hudson.
The blooms on the river are comprised of cyanobacteria which is harmful to humans, pets, and wildlife. It is advised to avoid contact with suspected HABs, and ensure pets and livestock also do not come into contact with any floating mats, scums, or discolored water. The HABs observed recently on the Hudson River are bright green and may resemble soup, green dots, spilled paint, or streaks (see example photos below).
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation maintains a statewide HABs Map, and any one who observes a suspected HAB should take document the HAB, by taking both close up and landscape photos showing the extent and location of the HAB and submit a report through the NYSDEC’s Algal Bloom Report Form.
If you are unable to submit the form, email photos, time, location, and a detailed description with your contact information to HABsInfo@dec.ny.gov.
