Potentially Toxic Algae Taking Over Western New York Waterways

Living in Buffalo and Western New York, it's sometimes easy to forget that we have access to a resource that many people around the nation don't: a direct connection to one of the world's most significant sources of fresh water.

With Lake Erie and Lake Ontario right in our backyard, we can do many things that people could only dream of, such as hopping on the water in a boat or canoe, or simply sitting near the beach. That's a great thing about having more than 80% of North America's freshwater within a few minutes of our homes. Having more than 6 Quadrillion gallons of water around the corner is just something most of the country can't relate to.

Now that the warm water is here, you may find yourself strolling along one of our many local waterways. Now, while there's nothing better than enjoying the water in town, you may need to be careful, as one community is dealing with an issue in the summer unless that body is dealing with a harmful algae bloom.

What Is Harmful Algae?

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation states that Harmful Algae Blooms, or HABs, happen in freshwater, including lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams, and are characterized by large, visible patches of cyanobacteria, commonly referred to as blue-green algae.

Under certain conditions, including adequate nutrient (e.g., phosphorus) availability, warm temperatures, and calm winds, cyanobacteria may multiply rapidly and form blooms that are visible on the surface of the affected waterbody. Several types of cyanobacteria can produce toxins and other harmful compounds that can pose health risks to people and animals through ingestion, skin contact, or inhalation.
-NYSDEC)

Even though most algae are harmless to people, it's nearly impossible for the average person to tell the difference between a toxic algae bloom and a non-toxic one. Officials warn that it's best practice to avoid boating, drinking, swimming, or playing in water with a visible bloom.

If you run into a harmful algae bloom, you should seek medical attention immediately.

Ellicott Creek Is Hit Dealing With Harmful Algae

There have been countless cases of Harmful Algae Blooms in New York State over the last decade. In Western New York, the Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper is a group that monitors blooms in our waterways.

Since the end of June 2025, blooms have been confirmed in Ellicott Creek over the last several weeks.

The chemical conditions that cause harmful algae to develop can be really dangerous to the health of the average person. So if you come across some water that looks suspect, please be sure to avoid it.

Symptoms that coincide with contact of HAB include stomach, skin, eye, and throat irritation, allergic reactions, or breathing difficulties. Pets, including dogs, who come in contact with HABs through swimming or drinking affected water can experience similar symptoms.
-Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper

With chemical runoff from farms, lawn treatments, and the region's aging infrastructure, we often see more pollution in our water, especially after a rainstorm. These things can give bacteria all the nutrients they need to grow. Chemicals like nitrogen and phosphorus can help algae to grow out of control.