Delta Lake Beach Temporarily Closed for Safety Concerns

ROME, N.Y. — The swimming beach at Delta Lake State Park has been temporarily closed due to safety concerns connected to a harmful algal bloom.

Officials say the closure is a precautionary measure to protect swimmers, families, and pets from possible exposure to unsafe water conditions. Harmful algal blooms, often referred to as HABs, can appear as green, blue-green, yellow, brown, or reddish discoloration on the surface of the water. In some cases, the water may look like spilled paint or pea soup.

While the park itself remains open, swimming at the beach is not permitted until conditions improve and officials determine the water is safe for public use.

Visitors are urged to follow all posted signs and avoid entering the water in the affected swimming area. Parents should keep children away from discolored water, surface scum, and debris along the shoreline. Pet owners should also keep dogs and other animals out of the water, as harmful algal blooms can pose serious health risks to animals.

Possible symptoms from exposure may include skin irritation, eye irritation, nausea, stomach issues, breathing problems, or other health concerns. Anyone who believes they or their pet may have come into contact with a harmful bloom should rinse off with clean water and seek medical or veterinary guidance if symptoms develop.

Delta Lake State Park is a popular summer destination for swimming, boating, camping, and family recreation in the Rome area. Officials have not announced an exact reopening date for the swimming beach. The beach will remain closed until further notice.

Residents and visitors planning a trip to Delta Lake are encouraged to check the latest updates from New York State Parks before heading out.

CNY Online will continue to follow this story and provide updates as more information becomes available.