Toxic Algae Found in Two Central Park Waterways
Photo of the Harlem Meer via wikimedia.
The state Department of Environmental Conservation has found toxic algae in the Harlem Meer and the Lake in Central Park, according to lab samples taken this month.
Unlike other lakes in the state, the concentrations of algae in the two Central Park lakes ar enot considered to have “high toxins.”
Such “Harmful Algae Blooms” can hurt people and animals, according to the state. “People, pets and livestock should avoid contact with water that is discolored or has algae scums on the surface. Colors can include shades of green, blue-green, yellow, brown or red. If contact does occur, rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove algae.”
Some species of algae have been known to be particularly harmful to dogs who swim in it and then lick their fur. It’s not clear if the Central Park algae falls into those categories.
The DEC has a list of things to know about Harmful Algae Blooms.
That’s a photo of The Pool, not the Harlem Meer.
Thanks, we’ve switched it out.
Surprised the Central Park Conservancy hasn’t cleaned up the water in Central Park which has been filthy for years.
This should be printed and posted all over Central Park as I constantly see owners put their dogs in it and parents allowing their children to put their feet and hands in it.
The Conservancy does post signs about the algae bloom on the wire fences at the water bodies. They can’t keep people from their own foolishness.
Signs are posted along the water’s edge. I saw them there on Sunday.
Sheesh!…never knew Central Park was such a “Gated Community”!
Also, why is there a “Women’s Gate”, a “Boys’ Gate, a “Girls’ Gate”… but NO “Men’s Gate” ?
Also Also, what happens should a Mariner miss his gate (W.85th) and mistakenly go through the Hunters’ Gate (W. 81st)?
To quote Yul Brynner’s King in “The King and I”, ‘Is a puzzlement’!
Where can I find more info on the toxicity of this algae?