With beaches across Putnam – and the state – again closing due to harmful algal blooms, local officials are calling for the state to increase investments in new technology and needed infrastructure while offering an omnibus legislative package to tackle the ongoing issue.
HABs have continued to be a problem in the Hudson Valley region, as five beaches in Putnam County, two in Yorktown and others in Rockland have already been shut down due to ongoing algae blooms.
“Every year, our communities are combating harmful algal blooms, and the problem is now reaching every corner of the state,” said Assemblyman Matt Slater, R-Yorktown, who has been collaborating with the Putnam County Health Department to combat HABs. “This is a complex issue that requires greater investment and a more comprehensive approach from New York State. Residents and visitors are being denied the ability to enjoy some of our great natural assets this summer because of these beach closures, and the state cannot keep burying its head in the sand.”
The proposal (A.6266)(S.7727) would add HABs within the definition of “water contaminant” and require the implementation of measures aimed at efficiently managing and mitigating the adverse effects of HABs in marine and freshwater environments. Moreover, it requires the development of emergency protocols to swiftly address instances of HABs and establishes a commission to develop regional monitoring and response plans.
The proposal would also direct Cornell University to complete a study of HABs and provide the findings to the governor, State Legislature, state agencies and the HABs Commission. The state’s Environmental Facilities Corporation would also be authorized to provide funding for emergency drinking water supplies when contamination has resulted in HABs or hypoxia.
State Sen. Rob Rolison, who sponsored the legislation, said localities need state assistance cleaning up the toxic blooms that are closing beaches and threatening the health of residents.
“This proposal should be supported by every member of the State Legislature who cares about recreational waterways and the opportunities they provide for thousands of individuals and families across the state,” he said. “Let’s roll up our sleeves and get it done.”
The state lawmakers pointed to multiple funding sources that could be used to invest in needed infrastructure, including portions of the voter-approved $4 billion Environmental Bond Act, which Slater wrote to Gov. Kathy Hochul about in April. Slater and Rolison say state dollars can be invested in new technology such as ultrasound devices, aeration systems and septic remediation programs.
Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne said public health and safety should be a priority for every level of government.
“Harmful algal blooms are a public health issue,” he said. “They are affecting communities across the state, and Putnam County is not immune. Our Department of Health team does a remarkable job managing the impacts of HABs, but county and local governments need more support if there is ever going to be meaningful change to limit HABs in the future.”
Putnam Valley Supervisor Jackie Annabi thanked Slater and Rolison for advocating for communities like Putnam Valley, and helping to “find ways to battle harmful algae blooms in our lake communities. Their actions in helping us receive much-needed and long-overdue funding are very much appreciated,” she said.
In 2018, then-Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced action plans to combat harmful algal blooms. Three of the 12 water bodies included were in Putnam County. While the action plans were productive in identifying ways to reduce pollution sources, adequate funding prevented the plans’ full implementation. With proper funding in place, the lawmakers are hopeful this will change.
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