Harmful Algal Bloom has dissipated on Wallkill and Rondout

Paddling and other recreation has resumed on the Wallkill River. Photo courtesy of Craig Chapman, New Paltz Kayaking Tours.
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Update 10/1:
An area of river apparently affected by algae was observed between the Dashville dam and Sturgeon Pool on the morning of 10/1. The observation was reported to DEC.

Paddling and other recreation has resumed on the Wallkill River. Photo courtesy of Craig Chapman, New Paltz Kayaking Tours.

A Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) that affected parts of the Wallkill River and Rondout Creek from August 11 to about September 2 has dissipated. There have been no observations of harmful algae for several weeks, and with cooler temperatures and water levels rebounding from drought conditions, a recurrence this year is unlikely.

Until a long term “pollution diet” is implemented to reduce nutrient pollution, HABs may recur, most likely when hot, dry river conditions return in future summers. Warmer temperatures and more frequent drought extremes will exacerbate the risk.

For more information about the 2022 Wallkill/Rondout HAB, the “pollution diet” and related issues read this blog post.

Learn more about the impacts of climate change on our watersheds October 24-26 at the Hudson River Watershed Alliance’s annual conference, “Climate Change Impacts on Water in the Hudson Valley.” On October 25, Dan Shapley will give a talk titled, “From drought to deluge: Water quality impacts and watershed community responses.” Register and find more information at hudsonwatershed.org.