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Some Ontario County beaches reopened after blue-green algae problems

Algae collecting along Charlotte Pier.
WXXI file photo
Algae collecting along Charlotte Pier.

Ontario County health officials say that Deep Run Beach in the Town of Gorham and Onanda Park Beach in the Town of Canandaigua have reopened their swimming areas.

Sandy Bottom Beach on Honeoye Lake remains closed for the swimming season due to algae blooms.

Officials say that it is safe to swim and boat in areas of the lake without visible algae. Blue-green algae occur naturally in bodies of water in low numbers, but during prolonged hot weather the algae can become abundant.

Some blue-green algae produce toxins which pose health risks if people or animals are exposed to large enough quantities. Symptoms of toxin exposure may include allergic reactions, or eye, skin, nose and throat irritations.

You can get more information at the Ontario County health department website.

Randy Gorbman is WXXI's director of news and public affairs. Randy manages the day-to-day operations of WXXI News on radio, television, and online.