Zebra mussels are an invasive, fingernail-sized mollusk that is native to fresh waters in Eurasia. Their name comes from the dark, zig-zagged stripes on each shell.

Zebra mussels probably arrived in the Great Lakes in the 1980s via ballast water that was discharged by large ships from Europe. They have spread rapidly throughout the Great Lakes region and into the large rivers of the eastern Mississippi drainage.

Here are two Links to research how to save your boats from Zebra Mussels

1. Wisconsin Dept. of Natural Resources:  Protect your boat and engine from zebra mussels 

2. MotorBiscuit: How to Remove Zebra Mussels From Your Boat

Blue-green algae, technically known as cyanobacteria, are microscopic organisms that are naturally present in lakes and streams. Under certain conditions, blue-green algae can become abundant in warm, shallow, undisturbed, nutrient-rich surface waters that receive a lot of sunlight. When this occurs, blue-green algae can form blooms that discolor the water, or produce floating mats or scums on the water’s surface.   From the NYS Health Department FAQs find more here.

This Blue-Green Algae Bloom was observed during the summer of 2022 and 2023. 

Algal Toxins 101:  An Introduction to Algae and Algal Toxins, Dr. Greg Boyer, 2015 NYSFOLA Annual Conference

Harmful Algal Blooms:  A Quick recap of the 2014 CSLAP Sampling Season - Dr. Greg Boyer, 2015 NYSFOLA Conference

Proactive Management of Harmful Algal Blooms, Dr. Stephen J. Souza, 2018 NYSFOLA Conference 

NYS DEC Shoreline Stabilization article and recommendations.

Some Links to websites that offer advice on products and procedures that are better or worse for the lake:

Six Household products that are really bad for the environment.

Sources and Solutions around the Home

What you can do : In your home

Simple ways to reduce Phosphorus pollution

Seven Steps to clean water