Is Song Lake safe? Toxic algae status
Cortland County, New York. Harmful algal bloom (blue-green algae) reports from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).
Data checked 24 October 2026. New York data is published as a yearly summary; the current season is shown on the NYHABS map.
13 of 14
years on the state's bloom list (2012–2025)
5
years with a confirmed high-toxin bloom (recorded 2012–2018)
2012
first year a bloom was listed
Year by year
Each year the lake appeared on the state bloom list, with its highest status.
Reports at Song Lake are most often logged in May, June and July.
Recent reports
| Date | Result |
|---|---|
| 14 September 2025 | Confirmed bloom |
| 12 June 2024 – 18 October 2024 | Confirmed bloom |
| 25 June 2022 – 9 September 2022 | Confirmed bloom |
| 4 June 2021 – 8 October 2021 | Confirmed bloom |
| 26 May 2020 – 28 October 2020 | Confirmed bloom |
| 25 June 2019 – 1 July 2019 | Confirmed bloom |
| 22 June 2018 – 20 October 2018 | Confirmed bloom |
| 2 June 2017 – 20 October 2017 | Confirmed bloom |
| 10 June 2016 – 22 August 2016 | Confirmed bloom, high toxins |
| 6 May 2015 – 30 June 2015 | Confirmed bloom, high toxins |
| 11 July 2014 – 29 September 2014 | Confirmed bloom, high toxins |
| 6 June 2013 – 27 October 2013 | Confirmed bloom, high toxins |
What the results mean
Reported to the state but not yet confirmed as blue-green algae.
State staff confirmed a blue-green algae bloom from photos or samples. Avoid contact with the water where the bloom is.
Toxin levels high enough to be a health concern. Recorded separately in the 2012–2018 data.
Dogs and toxic algae
Dogs face the greatest risk because they swallow water and lick algae off their fur. If a bloom has been reported, keep dogs out of the water and away from scum on the shore. If your dog swims in water that might have algae, rinse it with clean water straight away and call a vet if it seems unwell.
Common questions
Is Song Lake safe to swim in?
The most recent entry in New York's published data is from 14 September 2025: confirmed bloom. Blooms have been recorded at Song Lake in 13 different years, so treat green, scummy or discoloured water with caution. For current conditions, check the NYHABS map and posted signs.
When does Song Lake get algae blooms?
In the state's records, reports are most often logged in May, June and July. Blooms are most likely in warm, calm weather, but they can appear at other times of year.
Source: New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), official data. This page is independent and not affiliated with the State of New York.