Lake George, NY – Many thanks to all 40-50 participants, in our first Asian Clam Day July 15. In-the-water volunteers, 20-25 of us, were successful at collecting many thousands of Asian clams, 9.1% alive, while noting the changed distribution of clams from last year. Our scooping and sifting coincided with the arrival of the Lake George Association Floating Classroom filled with participants enjoying a morning of science and scenery on Lake George. The Floating Classroom was co-sponsored by The Sans Souci Restaurant, the Cleverdale Country Store, and Love Is On Lake George. The morning’s activities were intended to raise awareness about the increasing infestation of Asian clams in Sandy Bay and the concerns of residents. The morning was a success!

Our next Asian clam Day will be August 19, also 9:30-11:30. We ask volunteers to meet in the shallows of Sandy Bay. Please bring sifters, colanders, or spades and shovels, if you can. We will have equipment to lend, and we will have collection containers. For access to Sandy Bay shallows, please email lakestewardship@gmail.com.

On July 20, a small, localized shoreline harmful algal bloom (HAB) at Hall’s Marina on Lake George was reported by the LGA to the DEC. The HAB dissipated quickly but may re-form as weather conditions change. HABs in New York are most common during late summer when water temperatures are highest. DEC’s microscopic analysis determined the bloom was made up of Dolichospermum – a common type of cyanobacteria found in HABs in New York. The LGA collected water samples, and coordinated a comprehensive response by the Jefferson Project to collect more water samples for study. While there are no concerns related to public drinking water regarding this bloom, the New York State Department of Health reminds residents to never drink untreated surface water. We know early reporting of HABs is urgently important for public health and the health of the Lake. In addition to contacting NYS-DEC, to report any unusual algae that might possibly indicate a HAB, please email with Possible HAB as the subject line, either cnavitsky@lakegeorgewaterkeeper.org , barvidson@fundforlakegeorge.org , or kwilde@lakegeorgeassociation.org. We continue to wait for the Jefferson Project report on all HABs to-date.