East Hudson Valley News

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

HABs have continued to be a significant problem in the Hudson Valley region, leading to the closure of five beaches in Putnam County, two beaches in Yorktown, and others in Rockland. Slater has been collaborating with the Putnam County Health Department since last year to combat this issue.

"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."

The proposal (A.6266)(S.7727) aims to include harmful algal blooms within the definition of water contaminants and require measures for efficiently managing and mitigating their adverse effects in marine and freshwater environments. It also mandates developing emergency protocols to address instances of HABs swiftly and establishes a commission for regional monitoring and response plans. Additionally, Cornell University would be directed to study HABs and provide findings to relevant authorities.

State Sen. Rob Rolison, who sponsors the legislation, stated, "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."

The lawmakers highlighted multiple funding sources that could be used for necessary infrastructure investments, including portions of the voter-approved $4 billion Environmental Bond Act. Slater had written a letter to Governor Kathy Hochul about this funding source in April.

Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne emphasized public health as a priority: "Harmful algal blooms are a public health issue affecting communities across the state, including Putnam County. Our Department of Health team does a remarkable job managing HABs' impacts, but county and local governments need more support if there is ever going to be meaningful change."

Putnam Valley Supervisor Jackie Annabi expressed gratitude: "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."

In 2018, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced action plans to combat harmful algal blooms, which included three water bodies in Putnam County among twelve statewide. While these plans identified ways to reduce pollution sources effectively, inadequate funding hindered their full implementation.