The Toxic Blue-Green Algae Responsible For Killing Dogs Around The U.S. Has Been Found Near Buffalo

Creating a scare across the entire country, this summer multiple states including Georgia, North Carolina, and Texas have discovered harmful blue-green algae in their bodies of water. Unfortunately, as much as we'd like it to be so, the state of New York isn't immune to this alarming toxin. This week one of our nearby counties made headlines after a popular dog park reported having harmful blue-green algae in its waters. To make sure that you and your loved ones stay safe this year, check out the latest information that we have for you below.

This week here in Western New York, it was confirmed by local officials of Monroe County that toxic blue-green algae was found in a local dog park.

Only 80 miles west of Buffalo, Ellison Park in Rochester is a popular place for locals to visit with their four-legged friends.

With shallow ponds and the Irondequoit Creek running through the park, you'll find people coming here not only to go kayaking and canoing but to also let their dogs play around in the water.

It appears the unfortunate circumstance that lead to tragic outcomes in the southern states is now occurring here in Western New York, with officials advising anyone who's visited Ellison Park recently to rinse themselves (and their pets) off with water and to stay away from the park's ponds.

On another slightly alarming note, this isn't the only local body of water near Buffalo that's recently tested positive for harmful blue-green algae blooms.

According to the Department of Environmental Conservation's new interactive map that shows all the reported hazardous algae blooms that have occurred in 2019, there are several other bodies of water you should be wary of.

On the interactive map, you'll be able to see which waters have had harmful algae blooms reported within the last two weeks.

As of August 21st, Java Lake in Wyoming County, Ellison Park and Irondequoit Bay in Monroe County, Chautauqua Lake in Chautauqua County, and both Honeoye and Canandaigua Lake in Ontario County were seen on the map and reported to have the harmful blooms.

All are within anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes of Buffalo! The continuing reports of blue-green algae in Western New York's waters means that now - more than ever - you should keep an eye out for this issue.

To view the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's 2019 Map of Harmful Algae Blooms, click here.

If you're wondering what waters are safe to explore, then be sure to read about how you can Take This History Tour By Boat To Learn About Buffalo In A Whole New Way!