Clarkson University Researchers Lead Effort to Remediate Harmful Algal Blooms on Hyde Lake
Hyde Lake, once a pristine waterbody in Theresa, NY, has experienced frequent harmful algal blooms (HABs) since the early 2000s, resulting in serious consequences on the lake’s water quality and ecosystem. Residents and visitors have reported green surface scums, foul odors, and water discoloration, especially during summer months. Swimming bans have been posted. Fishing, lakeside living and recreation are areas of concern, and a decline in these activities could harm the local economy.
A group of researchers at Clarkson University are leading an investigation into these blooms to develop a long-term remediation plan.
HABs caused by cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) exhibit enormous threats to human health, animals, and aquatic ecosystems. Climate change and accelerated eutrophication are considered to exaggerate the outbreaks of cyanobacterial HABs. Cyanotoxins released during HABs can cause various negative health effects, from mild skin rashes to serious illnesses. They are usually grouped into hepatotoxins, neurotoxins, cytotoxins, irritants, and gastrointestinal toxins.
As an initial step toward long-term remediation, the project, led by Clarkson Assistant Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering Siwen Wang and Associate Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering Yang Yang, will assess internal phosphorus loading through sediment analysis and monitor key water quality parameters, as well as the presence of cyanotoxins and toxin-producing strains, during both peak and non-peak bloom seasons.
“Phosphorus is a key nutrient that fuels the growth of harmful algal blooms,” Wang explained. “While phosphorus can enter a lake from external sources like runoff or septic systems, it can also be released from the lake's own sediments, also known as internal phosphorus loading. By analyzing sediment samples, we can determine how much phosphorus is being released from within the lake itself.”
Ultimately, the findings will inform targeted interventions and support community-led efforts to restore water quality and ensure equitable access to clean, safe water. By integrating advanced analytical technologies at Clarkson with PAHL’s citizen science initiatives, the project aims to develop a comprehensive phosphorus and HABs database for Hyde Lake.
The project, titled “Combating Harmful Algal Blooms in Hyde Lake: A Comprehensive Investigation of Sediment and Water Quality,” is partially funded through the Jefferson County Soil and Water Conservation District’s Finger Lakes–Lake Ontario Watershed Protection Alliance (FLLOWPA) allocation, with additional cost share support from Clarkson University and the Preservation Alliance of Hyde Lake (PAHL). The research began in March 2025 and will run through March 2026.
