News

Water Quality Update: August 7, 2026

August 7, 2026
Water Quality

GENEVA, N.Y. – Seneca Lake continues to exhibit excellent water quality as we move through the height of the summer recreation season. According to the latest monitoring data collected on the evening of August 6th, surface temperatures and lake levels are fairly typical for early August, but dissolved oxygen levels measured unusually high. No HAB’s have been reported, and we are monitoring conditions constantly to make sure seasonal changes continue to support a healthy lake ecosystem.

Read the full interactive Water Quality Update for additional lake conditions, watershed news, upcoming events, and helpful resources, or view the PDF below.

Current conditions include:

  • Surface Temperature (Aug. 6): 76.3°F
  • Dissolved Oxygen (Aug. 6): 120% in the upper layer (≈25 ft)
  • Lake Level (Aug. 6): 445.67 ft
  • HAB Reports (Aug. 1–7): None reported

Monitoring data is provided through a partnership with the Finger Lakes Institute, NOAA, and Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association’s dedicated volunteer monitoring network.

No harmful algal blooms (HABs) were reported on Seneca Lake during the week of August 1–7. While this is encouraging news, warm summer temperatures and changing weather conditions mean blooms can develop quickly. Everyone enjoying Seneca Lake is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspected blooms. If you observe water that looks like pea soup, spilled paint, surface scum, or bright green streaks, avoid contact with the water, keep pets away, and report the suspected bloom to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and Seneca Lake Pure Waters.

Learn more about Pure Waters

To learn more about volunteering: https://senecalake.org/volunteer-opportunities/
To learn more about donating: https://senecalake.org/giving/

Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association is a 501(c)3 organization committed to preserving, protecting, and promoting the abundant resources of the largest Finger Lake. Seneca Lake is a source of drinking water, recreation, and economic opportunity for the greater community and its visitors. Our programs and partnerships make it possible to monitor water quality, educate the public, and evaluate threats to ensure the a healthy future for Seneca Lake and those who depend on it.