Unique Advanced Algae on West Beach
Chara and Nitella are actually advanced forms of algae that have a similar appearance to aquatic plants like Coontail (Ceratophyllum) and other macrophytes. Chara and Nitella prefer clear water and are beneficial in that they stabilize lake sediments which helps suppress blue-green algae blooms. West Beach is one of the few places around the lake that you will see the algae growing on the sandy lake bottom which occasionally breaks loose from the wind and wave action and ends up along the shoreline beach area. This algae is gritty when rubbed between your fingers and has a musky smell. The gritty feeling comes from the fact that this algae extracts and and coats itself with calcium as the season progresses. Chara and Nitella also provide beneficial habitat to a healthy fisheries.
This advanced form of algae when washed ashore dries up quickly in the sun to the point it becomes a non-nuisance to beach goers. Lake Mohawk maintenance crews also often use mechanical methods to keep the beaches clear of any nuisance debris that may wash ashore during the lake season.
Always a fun day at Lake Mohawk even on rainy days!
