Blue-Green Algae Keeping Lake Welch Closed Until Further Notice

By M. C. Millman

Lake Welch Beach in Harriman State Park is closed until further notice in response to a Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) that has impacted all of Lake Welch. The man-made lake, picnic grounds, and public boat launch are all closed to the public to protect the health and safety of visitors. 

Blue-green algae are not algae; they are correctly known as cyanobacteria, which are microscopic organisms that can produce HABs. According to the EPA, HABs are blooms with the potential to harm human health or aquatic ecosystems. Some cyanobacterial HABs can produce toxins, which can harm people, animals, aquatic ecosystems, the economy, drinking water supplies, property values, and recreational activities, including swimming and commercial and recreational fishing.