The governor announced a $65 million 4-point initiative to aggressively combat harmful algal blooms in lakes throughout in New York, including Putnam and Orange that threaten the recreational use of lakes that are important to upstate tourism, as well as sources of drinking water.
The lakes in Putnam and Orange are Lake Carmel, Palmer Lake, Putnam Lake, and the Monhagen Brook watershed, including the five reservoirs serving the Middleton area.
"Protecting water quality is a top priority and through these actions and funding, we are providing direct assistance to communities to ensure their water resources remain clean," Governor Cuomo said. "This comprehensive program will continue New York's national leadership in responding to the threat of harmful algal blooms and implement new and innovative strategies to safeguard our clean water for future generations."
The state will provide $500,000 per lake to develop immediate action plans to reduce sources of pollution that spark algal blooms.
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