Blue-green algae bloom confirmed in Riverwoods Pond in Riverside

Suffolk County health officials are warning residents to stay out of the water at Riverwoods Pond in Riverside, after a water analysis confirmed the presence of new cyanobacteria blooms, more commonly known as blue–green algae.

Residents should not use or swim or wade in the pond and should keep children and pets away from the area, the Suffolk County health department said in a press release Friday afternoon.  

The cyanobacteria blooms confirmed in Riverwoods Pond is one of six confirmed cyanobacteria blooms reported on the East End during the month of July, according to data on harmful bacteria blooms published by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. 

Blue-green algae are naturally present in freshwater ponds, lakes and streams in low numbers, but they can become abundant, forming blooms in shades of green, blue-green, yellow, brown or red, the health department said. They may produce floating scums on the surface of the water or may cause the water to take on paint-like appearance. 

Several types of cyanobacteria can produce toxins and other harmful compounds that can pose health risks to people and animals through ingestion, skin contact, or inhalation.

See: More information on harmful bacterial blooms.

Health officials said contact with waters that appear scummy or discolored should be avoided. If contact does occur, rinse off with clean water immediately.  Seek medical attention if any of the following symptoms occur after contact: nausea, vomiting or diarrhea; skin, eye or throat irritation; or allergic reactions or breathing difficulties.

To report a suspected blue-green algae bloom at a body of water that contains a Suffolk County-permitted bathing beach, please contact the Suffolk County Department of Health Services’ Office of Ecology at 631-852-5760 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. or by email at any time at scdhsweb@suffolkcountyny.gov.