Lake Welch Beach Reopens After Treatment For Toxic Algae

ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY — Lake Welch in Harriman State Park has reopened the beach and picnic grounds after treating the water for toxic algae, the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and the Palisades Interstate Park Commission announced Tuesday.

The lake was closed for swimming or other recreational activities July 9 after a Harmful Algal Bloom was first observed.

Exposure to HABs can cause health effects in people and animals when water with blooms are touched, swallowed, or when airborne droplets are inhaled. Exposure to high levels of algae and their toxins can cause diarrhea, nausea or vomiting; skin, eye or throat irritation; and allergic reactions or breathing difficulties. Recreational exposures can occur while swimming, wading, fishing, or boating in areas with HABs.

HABs typically occur in areas with warm weather, calm water, and higher levels of nutrients from such things as septic systems and fertilizer.

An algaecide was applied to Lake Welch to treat and minimize the spread of the bloom, park officials said.

After no visible HAB sightings over the weekend and satisfactory water quality samples, it was determined the beach could reopen for swimming.

Updates on swimming conditions at Lake Welch will continue to be posted on the website as well as the mobile app. Download the free NY State Parks Explorer app.