Toxic Algae Blooms Transform Cayuga Lake: A Couple's Unexpected Twilight Years

From Dream Retirement to Toxic Reality

Jody Price and Griffith Jones envisioned their golden years in a quaint cottage on the shores of Cayuga Lake in New York State. Fourteen years ago, they purchased a little home just steps from the lake’s clear blue waters, dreaming of peaceful twilight years. But their retirement took an unexpected turn when they discovered the lake held dangers not advertised by tourism offices.

“We’re one of those lucky people where you can see the water from the door of your cottage,” says Jody Price, a teacher whose husband is an avid fisher.

Algal Blooms Disrupt Life on the Lake

For the first five years, everything seemed ideal. Then, in 2017, the couple noticed a greenish hue spreading along their shoreline. Unsure of the cause, they called a local water specialist friend to investigate. After scooping clumps of green mush near their cabin and inspecting the sample, their fears were confirmed: It was a harmful algal bloom.

This discovery changed their life on the lake. When blooms occur, the couple avoids using tap water for showers or dishes, opting instead for paper plates and plastic utensils. Their story mirrors the experiences of many others living near Cayuga Lake.

Cayuga Lake’s Growing Toxic Bloom Crisis

Harmful algal blooms have been recorded in Cayuga Lake since 2013 by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). These blooms have become more frequent and the season—typically between July and September—has lengthened. Caused by cyanobacteria that produce toxins, these blooms pose risks to the environment, people, and animals.

Cayuga Lake consistently reports one of the highest numbers of harmful algal blooms in New York, according to the DEC. The state agency tracks outbreaks using data from the public, staff, and trained volunteers. The DEC attributes much of this awareness to its public outreach and online reporting system.

Root Causes of the Algal Explosion

The primary driver of these blooms is nutrient pollution, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus from agricultural fertilizers that wash into the lake. Septic systems and lawn care runoff also contribute. Greg Boyer, professor emeritus at the State University of New York’s College of Environmental Science and Forestry, notes that while scientists don’t fully understand the causes and frequency of algal blooms, they agree that warmer water is a key factor. Cayuga Lake is warming, partly due to human-caused climate change.

Public Health and Environmental Concerns

The DEC warns that harmful algal blooms can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals. Exposure may cause skin irritation, gastrointestinal issues, or more severe health problems. The agency advises the public to avoid contact with discolored water or scums and to keep pets away from affected areas.

For residents like Jody and Griffith, the blooms have forced lifestyle changes. They now rely on bottled water for drinking and cooking, and avoid swimming or fishing during bloom periods. Their story reflects the broader challenges facing communities around Cayuga Lake as they grapple with the consequences of toxic algae.

What’s Next for Cayuga Lake?

Efforts to address the issue include reducing agricultural runoff, improving septic systems, and monitoring water quality. The DEC continues to urge the public to report suspected blooms through its online reporting system. As climate change intensifies, the fight to preserve Cayuga Lake’s ecosystem—and the lives of those who depend on it—becomes increasingly urgent.