With beaches closing again Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown), Sen. Rob Rolison and Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne advised residents of Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) and called for the state to increase investments in new technology and needed infrastructure while offering an omnibus legislative package to tackle the ongoing HABs issue.

HAB’s have continued to be a huge problem in the Hudson Valley region as five beaches in Putnam County, two beaches in Yorktown and others in Rockland have already been shut down due to ongoing algae blooms. Slater has been collaborating with the Putnam County Health Department since last year taking necessary steps to combat this. https://www.theexaminernews.com/slater-proposes-legislation-to-battle-toxic-algae-blooms-in-lakes/

“Every year, our communities are combating harmful algal blooms, and the problem is now reaching every corner of the state,” said Slater. “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.”

This proposal (A.6266)(S.7727) would add harmful algal blooms (HABs) within the definition of water contaminant and require the implementation of measures aimed at efficiently managing and mitigating the adverse effects of harmful algal blooms 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, 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 sponsors the legislation, said, “I proudly co-sponsor Assemblyman Slater’s legislation in order to provide real solutions to our localities who need state assistance cleaning up the toxic blooms that are closing beaches and threatening the health of our 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. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get it done.

Additionally, the state lawmakers, who both served in local government, pointed to multiple funding sources that could be used to invest in needed infrastructure. This includes portions of the voter- approved $4 billion Environmental Bond Act, which Slater wrote a letter to Governor Kathy Hochul about in April. Slater and Rolison believe 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. 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. I thank Assemblyman Slater and Senator Rolison for their commitment to this issue and ensuring our lake communities get the support they need.”

Putnam Valley Supervisor Jackie Annabi said, “I’m grateful that Assemblyman Slater and Senator Rolison are working hard to help communities like Putnam Valley 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.”

In 2018 Gov.Andrew Cuomo announced action plans to combat harmful algal blooms. (Cuomo study here) Three of the twelve 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.