Subjects: Algal blooms, Jamesville Beach Closure, Gillie Lake Closure, Harmful Toxins, Water Safety, Health Advisory

Jamesville Beach, situated in the Town of LaFayette, and Gillie Lake in the Town of Camillus, have been temporarily closed for swimming due to the visible presence of an algal bloom, as stated by the Onondaga County Health Department. Once the beaches exhibit no visible signs of algae for 24 consecutive hours, water sampling will be conducted to verify the absence of toxins before the beaches can be reopened. It is important to note that the closure of swimming areas does not impact the availability of other recreational amenities provided at the parks during regular operating hours.

Algal blooms can give the water a green color and create thick surface layers on the water’s surface. Certain types of algae can release toxins that can cause skin or eye irritations, as well as gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and vomiting if ingested. It is advised for both people and animals to avoid water containing algal blooms present in any body of water.

The Health Department recommends the following precautions:
– Avoid swimming, wading, boating, or fishing near blooms or scums, and refrain from consuming fish caught from waters affected by blooms.
– Do not drink the water.
– Keep children and pets away from any blooms or scums.
– Rinse with clean water if exposed to algal blooms.

For future updates concerning the status of the closure at Jamesville Beach, please click here. For the latest information regarding Gillie Lake beach, click here.