Algae Bloom in Kinzua Reservoir
Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
9 September 2012
By Rick Wills
The Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District has identified a
blue-green algae bloom in Kinzua Dam/Allegheny Reservoir in New
York.
Corps officials have tested the water and have found that the
bloom could be harmful to humans and pets should they come in
contact with the algae.
The reservoir straddles New York and Pennsylvania and feeds into
the Allegheny River.
The corps was notified by the New York State Department of Health
on Aug. 30. The bloom was found in the New York side of the
reservoir in Quaker Bay and along a mile-long stretch of the
Allegheny Reservoir directly downstream of the bay.
Blue-green algae can generate toxins that can impact human, pet,
livestock and fish health. They can cause allergic-type reactions,
skin irritations, and in severe cases liver or nervous system
damage.
The corps is posting signs notifying the public of the health
risks associated with blue-green algae. The agency will continue
to test and monitor water.
Children and pets are the most susceptible to the effects of
blue-green algae. Visitors are encouraged to avoid areas where
algae are present.
For more information, visit New York State Department of Health
website,www.health.ny.gov/environmental/water/drinking/bluegreenalgae.pdf.
Rick Wills is a staff writer for Trib Total Media. He can be
reached at 412-320-7944 or at rwills@tribweb.com.