Local residents on Long Island have been dealing with harmful algae blooms in their waters for years. However, the recent deaths of three dogs in North Carolina after exposure to toxic blue-green algae served as a harsh reminder of the long-term problem. Biologist Chris Gobler, a professor at Stony Brook University, has been testing waters for cyanobacteria, a type of blue-green or green algae with a scummy appearance on the surface, since 2003. Suffolk County consistently tops the list of New York counties with the highest number of ponds, lakes, and other fresh waters affected by this algae.

For years, harmful algae blooms have invaded the fresh waters of Long Island. However, the recent deaths of three dogs in North Carolina after playing in a pond contaminated with toxic blue-green algae was a stark reminder of the annual problem caused by high heat. Biologist Chris Gobler of Stony Brook University has been monitoring these algae since 2003 and noted that Suffolk County consistently tops the state’s list of counties affected. This summer alone, cyanobacteria have been suspected or confirmed in 19 Suffolk County bodies of water. While the toxins typically cause mild symptoms in humans, they can be fatal to dogs and other animals.

The full article can be read at: https://www.newsday.com/long-island/environment/cynobacteria-dogs-algae-fresh-water-q54172/