*Blue-Green Algae Blooms in Champlain*
West Swanton, Vermont
Published, 8/15/2008

Many people hoped Lake Champlain's plague of blue-green algae would not be so bad this year but sunnier skies this week mean the algae is again in full bloom. It's believed that fertilizers are a big cause of the algae so heavy rains followed by sunny skies mean conditions are ripe for it to grow. Near the Route 78 causeway, where many people gather to fish, the bluegreen algae is impossible to miss. "When it gets to the shore it's like pea soup or whatever you call it," says fisherman Howard Richard. For about a decade now the algae has bloomed every summer, leaving scientists scratching their heads about its exact cause and anyone who gets in the water scratching their skin. "You can't go swimming in it, you get all green," says Richard. "Gets in your swimming suit and clothes and everything. It gets on your skin and you have to take a shower to get it off."
The state Department of Health says most of Lake Champlain is considered generally safe. The thickest blooms are on the eastern shore of the Missisquoi Bay, and along the northern shore and inner bay areas of Saint Albans bay. Blooms shift with the wind though, so density is constantly changing.
"At first it looked like it might have been pollen but then it started to get more and more filled," says Ron Haskell, who comes to the lake frequently to look for turtles. Blue-green algae is toxic to humans and animals so it's not just making the water look gross, it's keeping people and pets from enjoying the lake.
"Up until I saw this I was bringing my dog down here for regular walks and swims but I won't let her near it," says Haskell. "And I would never get into this water. Never" For the people who live along the lake the algae is more than just a nuisance. Many homes pull their water directly from the lake so the algae is a daily health threat. Residents say they are hesitant to shower, do their dishes, or brush their teeth. "I usually brush my teeth with it but I wouldn't right now," says West Swanton resident, Martha Perry.
Perry and her neighbors say the algae smells too. It's even made some people pack up their things and head elsewhere until the thick blooms clear up.
Not all algae is toxic. Even getting a little blue-green algae on you is okay, as long as you wash off pretty quickly and don't ingest any.

http://www.wcax.com/Global/story.asp?S=8850047&nav=4QcROYbb

*Toxic Algae Bloom Identified in Mattawoman Creek*
Chesapeake Bay News
Published, 8/15/2008

Toxic Algae Bloom Identified in POTOMAC RIVER TRIBUTARY, MATTAWOMAN CREEK

Dept. of Natural Resources Asks Potomac Watershed Residents For Help to Prevent Future Harmful Algal Blooms

Routine water quality monitoring by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the Morgan State University Estuarine Research Center recently identified high concentrations of toxic blue-green algae, Microcystis, in Mattawoman Creek off of the Potomac River.

“Excessive nutrient pollution in the water fuels these algal blooms, which are not uncommon in the freshwater and low salinity waters of the Potomac River. Harmful algal blooms such as these can be prevented if more people living in the Potomac River watershed take steps to reduce run-off pollution,” said Tom Parham, DNR tidewater ecosystem assessment director. “Some easy and affordable backyard solutions include planting native trees and rain gardens, using rain barrels, and refraining from fertilizing in the spring.”

After learning of algal toxin levels higher than typical acceptable standards for human and animal contact in water samples from Mattawoman Creek, Charles County issued a health advisory for the area encouraging people to take precautions to reduce the risk of illness or discomfort related to blue-green algal blooms:

* The public should not swim in areas where a blue-green algae bloom is evident.

* Do not drink water from any area with the appearance of a blue-green algae bloom.

* If contact is made with problem water, simply wash off with fresh water.

* In some cases, skin irritations may occur after prolonged contact. If irritations persist, see a physician or local health care provider.

* Keep pets and livestock away from bloom areas.

* Blue-green algal blooms may contain toxins that could be harmful or fatal to pets and livestock.

* Do not eat internal organs of fish caught in blue-green bloom waters.

* Inhalation exposure to blue-green algal bloom waters may result in irritation of the eyes, ears, nose and throat with extended recreational activity on such waterways.

Please note that illness associated with harmful algal blooms is a reportable illness and physicians should be reporting these to local health departments.

“We will continue to monitor the algal bloom,” added Parham.

http://www.chesapeake-bay.org/index.php/08-2008/15/toxic-algae-bloom-identified-in-mattawoman-creek/

The Charles County Commissioners and the Charles County Department of Health advises the public that an algae bloom has occurred in local waters. Concentrations of a blue-green algae, called Microcystis, have been reported in Mattawoman Creek and the Potomac River. Microcystis aeruginosa is a naturally occurring algae in Maryland's Chesapeake Bay and fresh waters. Blooms of blue-green algae may occur in nutrient rich environments and may become harmful when they occur in high concentrations or if they produce toxins.

When bathers see bright green waters, sometimes with a surface scum that resembles green paint, they are advised to take the following precautions:

* Do not swim in areas where a bloom of blue-green algae is evident.
* Do not drink water from an area with the appearance of a blue-green algal bloom. If contact is unavoidable, simply wash off with fresh water.
* If any skin irritation persists, see a physician or healthcare provider.
* Keep pets and livestock away from bloom areas. Ingesting smallamounts of water from bloom areas should not harm pets.

Questions regarding any suspected symptoms in your animals should be directed to your veterinarian.

Additional information is available from the Charles County Department of Health Web site or by calling (301) 609-6773.

To report human illness from bloom water contact, a fish kill, or a fish health-related event, call the Bay Health Hotline at 1 (877) 224-4229, 24 hours a day.

http://www.thebaynet.com/news/index.cfm/fa/viewstory/story_ID/9548

People, pets urged to stay away from green water in Irishtown Nature Park due to possible health risk

BY ALAN COCHRANE
TIMES & TRANSCRIPT STAFF

There's an ugly green monster lurking in the stagnant water of the Irishtown Nature Park, and experts say it will continue to grow unless something is done about it.

The Irishtown reservoir has taken on a bright green glaze of pond scum -- also known as green-blue algae or cyanobacteria -- primitive microscopic plants that live in fresh water and feed on phosphorus, nitrogen and other nutrients.

The algae is a naturally occuring phenomenon that is apparently an extreme case in Irishtown this year, to the point where the city has urged people to keep themselves and their pets away from the a lake that looks as if the Incredible Hulk took a long bath and left behind a major case of ring around the tub.

The green bacteria floats like a film on the surface, moving slowly with the flow of water through the spillway into a nearby creek. And among the rocks and stagnant corners around the spillway are chunks of bright blue goo the size of a coffee cup or larger. These are called "blooms" but they don't smell like any roses you've encountered before.

Kneel down by the water with a stick and jab it into the blue sludge and you'll see that it is brown on the inside and emits a distinct, stomach-churning aroma.

Alyre Chiasson, a freshwater biologist at l'Université de Moncton, says the blue-green algae is a naturally occurring phenomenon. Although it is common and natural, it could pose a serious health hazard to humans, animals, fish and anything else that comes in contact with it.

The City of Moncton yesterday issued a warning yesterday, advising people that the lake would be closed for recreational use. The park and its popular walking trails will remain open.

"Until further notice people should not boat, swim or fish in the lake. Also, pets should not swim in the lake or drink the water," the city said in a brief statement issued yesterday. Signs will be posted around the area and will remain until water and algae samples can be tested.

Bruce Tait, director of municipal facilities, said the city is working with provincial officials to find out what kind of tests should be done on the algae, and then find a lab that is capable of doing those tests.

"At least the good news is that it is a natural occurrence and not some type of point source solution," Tait said.

The reservoir feeds from swamps and streams north of the city. It flows through small creeks near Elmwood Drive and into the city near l'Université de Moncton, eventually leading to the Petitcodiac River.

An inspection by the Times & Transcript yesterday indicated the algae was concentrated in the area by the old spillway, near the main entrance to the Irishtown Nature Park. The algae dissipates after the water flows over the spillway and through the creeks. There was no visual evidence of green colour in other bodies of water in the area yesterday morning.

Chiasson said blue-green algae can be dangerous and cause serious health problems if ingested by humans or animals. Although blue-green algae is common, the Irishtown Nature Park seems to be the only local water source affected to such an extreme in Metro Moncton this summer.

The Irishtown Nature Park is located on the Irishtown Road, on the northern edge of city limits between the Royal Oaks golf club and the Caledonia Industrial Park. The large reservoir has been around for many years and was used as a primary water source for the city before the Turtle Creek facility was built.

Tait said it is no longer connected to the municipal water system. "The pipes are gone. There is no way to connect it to the system. It is just a recreational body of water that is used sometimes by people with canoes or kayaks, or people who play fetch with their pets."

Susan Linkletter, a project co-ordinator with the Petitcodiac River Water Shed Alliance, was at the site yesterday taking water samples for testing.

She said the algae in the reservoir represents an extreme case, likely caused by the perfect combination of factors to promote widespread growth. Algae feeds on nitrates and phosphorous in the water and benefits from bright sunlight, like the long stint last month before the rains began. Also, the reservoir is sheltered from wind by the trees and there is not a lot of water flow. Also, the temperature around the lake has been steady at about 24 C recently. Linkletter said all these factors came together to provide a perfect breeding ground for the algae.

Tait said the city would continue testing the water and the algae itself, but the reason for its extreme appearance this year remains a bit of a mystery.

According to a fact sheet from the Ontario Department of the Environment, the nutrients that green-blue algae thrive on often enter the water from other sources, including "Runoff of household fertilizers, agricultural runoff, industrial effluent, effluent from waste management systems and faulty septic systems."

http://timestranscript.canadaeast.com/front/article/382965

After almost an hour of discussion about whether to chemically treat Fountain Lake for excessive algae, the Albert Lea City Council voted Monday to let the lake go as is for the remainder of the year.

City Council members indicated they would like to budget for the copper sulfate treatment next year and work with the Shell Rock River Watershed District to develop a plan of action for the treatment. For this year, however, funds are short and it is already late in the summer season.

“I look at the lake every day when I get up in the morning and every day when I come home,” Councilor Larry Baker said. “It is an issue we need to deal with.”

Susie Petersen

The discussion came about after Albert Lea Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Susie Petersen submitted a formal letter to the council asking to address the issue as soon as possible.

Petersen’s letter followed much controversy this summer as to whether the lake should be treated with copper sulfate to reduce its green hue.

“People who come into our town love our lakes and they love our community,” Petersen said.

She markets Albert Lea as the Land Between the Lakes and takes a great source of pride in it being such, she said.

If the lake could not be treated this year, she asked for the council to budget for it in 2009.

Larry Baker

City Manager Victoria Simonsen said thus far the treatment is not budgeted for in 2009, unlike an earlier belief that it was. There had been a discrepancy about whether it was still included, she said.

If the council members want to keep the money in, they will have to vote to do so when they approve the budget. Until they vote, nothing is final.

Simonsen said she thinks there was some copper sulfate left from last year, but she doesn’t know how much. She said she is going to be looking into the whereabouts of the chemical and finding out exactly how much remains. This could make a difference in how much has to be purchased.

During the discussion, City Council members drilled Shell Rock River Watershed District Administrator Brett Behnke with questions about the district’s contribution to Fountain Lake and Behnke’s professional opinion about the matter.

Randy Erdman

“We do not oppose the treatment of the lake,” Behnke said. “However, we do not treat it.”

He said there are many people who have mixed opinions about the treatment, but in his opinion, “It’s safe, not harmful,” if it’s applied properly.

The watershed district constructed core samples of the lake, and it did not come back with any hot spots, he said.

Councilor Al Brooks asked whether treating the late this far in the season would be noticeable.

Behnke said it would, especially combined with the cooler evenings.

Councilor Vern Rasmussen expressed his frustration with the watershed district.

He said he knows the long-range goal of the district is water quality, but he asked, how long is it going to be before people can start seeing a difference?

John Severtson

Behnke explained several projects, which are set up to reduce loading of sediment.

“In the next five to 10 years, you’re going to see a huge impact on the upper watershed, and you’re never going to have this conversation again,” he said.

Councilor John Severtson asked why the Shell Rock River Watershed District or Freeborn County won’t participate in cleaning up the lake.

Behnke replied that that is not the watershed’s duty. Their duty is water quality, he said, and if they did it for Fountain Lake, they would have to do it for other lakes, too, including Pickerel Lake, where the algae problem originates.

Severtson asked who owns Fountain Lake.

Simonsen said she asked the county attorney that same question and he said that “the people” own the lake.

Behnke said if it were his position, he would have treated the lake closer to the Fourth of July, even though the lake wasn’t as green yet.

“If you apply it, it’s going to do something. It’s going to be less green,” he said.

Brett Behnke

Behnke said the watershed does not oppose the treatment of the lake.

“I don’t think it’s a perfect thing for the lake, but I don’t think it’s going to hurt your lake,” he said.

Councilors and Mayor Randy Erdman asked for the watershed’s help in coming up with a plan of action for the treatment, and Behnke responded he would do whatever he could to help.

“We are not the experts on the lake,” Erdman said. “We do need some kind of plan if this is going to take some kind of long-term plan.”

Every year, the council goes through the same process, he said, and every year, they’re told that eventually everything will get better. It doesn’t, Erdman said, and that needs to change.

In other action, the City Council:

- Voted to enter into an agreement with Alliant Energy to use funds through their shared savings program to complete a geothermal project at City Arena.

Victoria Simonsen

The proposed project will convert the refrigeration and heating systems from gas and electric sources to geothermal energy. It would create an annual net savings of nearly $45,000 per year in utility costs and a reduction of more than 300,000 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions.

The cost of the project is anticipated to be $950,000, with about $310,000 available through the shared savings program and the remainder being a city cost.

- Accepted bids and awarded the contract for the 2008, 2009 and 2010 biosolids hauling contract to Oyer Trucking out of Hayward with a low bid of about $239,000.

The engineer’s estimate was $252,200.

- Accepted bids and awarded the contract for the street reconstruction and water main replacement on Ridge Road. The contract was awarded to Sorenson Bros. Inc. of Albert Lea for about $184,000.

- Approved a Youth First Athletic Program agreement with the Albert Lea School District and Community Education.

The program involves multiple sports designed for seventh- and eighth-grade boys and girls during the 2008-09 school year.

The cost will be split equally between the city, the school district and Community Education, not to exceed $13,000 each.

http://www.albertleatribune.com/news/2008/aug/12/city-will-not-treat-fountain-lake/

(ABC 6 NEWS) -- Fountain Lake has been called a source of pride for the city of Albert Lea.

But some people aren't so proud of it right now, and want something to be done.

Going green is popular if you're trying to save the planet, but not if it involves a trip to the beach.

There’s a lot of support these days for going green as a way to save the planet, but there's another kind of going green and when Fountain Lake goes green, it doesn't have that much support.

"The color comes from the algae bloom that we get, especially when the lake gets warmer," says Park and Rec’s Jay Hutchison.

For years, Albert Lea has treated the annual algae bloom with chemicals.

This year, the treatment was not included in the city budget.

Now, the Albert Lea Convention and Visitors Bureau is asking the city to reconsider.

"We’re just urging them to address this algae issue, try to treat it or keep it in the budget," says Susie Peterson.

The city has been treating the annual algae bloom with Copper Sulfate.

This year, the cost of the chemicals alone would have been $12,000.

"There’s no good things that come out of treating the lake except the immediate turning from green to a brown color and getting rid of the algae. It's a pretty short term fix," says Hutchison.

And new DNR regulations would mean that the lake would have to be treated one half-at-a-time, with the treatments coming one week apart.

"It is less effective now because we have to have that wait period," Hutchison says.

Swimmers are bothered even though the bloom is mostly an aesthetic issue.

"It isn't harmful to aquatic life in the lake or people using the lake," says Hutchison.

"I have people say I’m not swimming in that beach," says Peterson.

And we found some of them…

"No, we're not going in the water today. I don't like green water," says one swimmer.

"It’s kind of gross," says another.

"Yeah, it should be more clear,” weighs in another swimmer at the beach.

"The folks that come here are really impressed, and that's our job, we want to impress them," Peterson says.

The Albert Lea City Council will hear the CVB’s request for treatment of Fountain Lake at their meeting tonight.

http://kaaltv.com/article/stories/S539969.shtml?cat=10226

Belmont, Mass. -

High levels of microcystis algae were detected at Little Pond during water sampling performed by volunteers from the Mystic River Watershed Association. This particular type of algae can be toxic if ingested in high doses and can cause skin irritation and a rash after wading or swimming. The Belmont Board of Health strongly advises residents not to swim or stand in the water and especially urges residents to keep pets away from the water.

“This is the first time during my tenure as Director that we have been notified of this problem,” stated Health Director, Donna Moultrup. “Apparently Spy Pond in Arlington has been posted in the past but this is new for us. This can be fatal for dogs swimming in the water so we want residents to spread the word.”

Microcystis is a cyanobacteria algae that grows naturally beneath or on the surface of many water bodies. Under certain conditions (such as warm weather and an abundance of nutrients in the water) the algae may undergo an explosive type of growth that results in dense, floating mats of algae. This is commonly referred to as an “algae bloom.”

Contact with high levels of the cyanobacteria algae has been found to contribute to eye, ear, and skin irritation. Microcystis is different from most other types of algae because it contains and can secrete a toxin into the water. During an algae bloom, the amount of algae and toxin in the water can become elevated and exposure can be potentially harmful to people and animals.

Health concerns vary depending on the concentrations of microcystis and its toxin, microcystin. Ingestion of elevated concentrations of the algae and its toxin can lead to more serious health effects (e.g. muscle cramps, twitching, and liver damage).

Since algae benefit from warm, sunny weather, as the days get shorter and cooler, the algae are likely to dissipate. Any toxins that are in the water will decline over time as the algae die off. In addition, any rainfall will help to circulate the water and break-up the bloom. There is no treatment available that will “kill” or remove the algae bloom. It is a natural process.

For questions related to health concerns, contact your health care provider.

http://www.wickedlocal.com/belmont/news/lifestyle/health/x1118069934/Health-Dept-Stay-away-from-Little-Pond

*Health caution issued at Devils Lake*
Posted: Aug 08, 2008 - 08:57:37 PDT
By Jim Fossum Of the News-Times

Yellow health alert caution signs warning of the presence of cyanobacteria were posted Tuesday evening at most public access spots around Devils Lake in Lincoln City. The blue-framed sign is posted weekly to show levels of the E. coli bacteria, which this week were of low risk in all spots tested at the lake. (Photo by Jim Fossum)

Health alerts were posted Tuesday at virtually all public access areas around Devils Lake in Lincoln City, warning that potentially toxic cyanobacteria are blooming and washing ashore in high densities in protected coves and shorelines.

Yellow caution alert signs, the second warning stage of a Cyano-Watch program initiated last year by the Devils Lake Water Improvement District, are posted at docks, beaches and boat launches to inform recreationalists that potential exists for contamination that can cause health problems for humans and pets.

“As a system of emphasizing the potential increased risk associated with cyanobacteria and how people need to be mindful of such potential risk, yellow caution has been posted at all sites around the watershed,” DLWID manager Paul Robertson said.
If ingested or inhaled, cyanobacteria can cause diarrhea, nausea, cramps, fainting, numbness, dizziness, tingling, paralysis and even death. Skin contact can cause rashes or irritation. High-risk activities during a bloom include jet skiing, waterskiing and swimming.

Cyanobacteria are simple photosynthetic organisms that occur naturally in water and wetland areas. Commonly, but mistakenly called blue-green algae, they are small, even microscopic organisms that when conditions are right can multiply rapidly into blooms.

Warm, calm water and nutrients contribute to the rapid growth of cyanobacteria and the development of blooms, Robertson said.

A bloom is a rapid buildup of cyanobacteria that creates a green, blue-green, white or brown color on the water's surface. They are often found in standing water in lakes, reservoirs, ditches, ponds, streams and rivers and can often accumulate in large concentrations near the shore or in coves due to wind and wave action. Some freshwater cyanobacteria can create toxins similar to those found in the marine environment that cause shellfish harvesting restrictions.

When a bloom is present, it is best to stay out of the water and to keep pets away. If you have contacted the water, Robertson advises that you should wash yourself and your pet thoroughly with a clean source of water. Do not use the affected water for drinking or cooking because toxins that may be present cannot be removed with filtration, boiling or chemical treatments. However, activities near the water such as camping, picnicking, biking and hiking are safe.

Recreational boating is of less concern, as are other non- or low-water contact recreational activities. Fish consumption can provide some risk of exposure, but according to the Department of Health and Human Services, is greatly decreased if the head, intestines, and skin are removed before cooking. Boiling or heat will not destroy any toxins that may be present.

Only a few types of cyanobacteria are known to produce toxins. Devils Lake is among the many lakes and reservoirs that are monitored for toxic cyanobacteria blooms.

Robertson said blooms can occur rapidly, so it is important to look for them before entering the water. Cyanotoxins can remain in the water long after cyanobacteria have declined in numbers, so a two-week waiting period is recommended once a bloom disappears.

Extra caution should be exhibited to protect animals, as they will often drink water from the shorelines or may have gone swimming in bloom-affected areas. Exposure is subsequently increased after exiting the water, as an animal will lick itself clean and effectively be ingesting and absorbing any cyanobacteria or toxins that may have been on its fur.

Four toxins can be produced by cyanotoxic bacteria, most prominently in late July and August. Statistics for the presence of cyanobacteria's presence have gradually increased in Devils Lake since 1994. A posting of warning signs at Devils Lake also was conducted at a similar time of the month last year, Robertson said.

In addition, Robertson released data Tuesday that showed a low risk levels for E. coli at all testing areas. They include East Devils Lake State Park, Holmes Road Park, Thompson Creek, Regatta Grounds, Devils Lake Campground, D River, Rock Creek and Sand Point Park.

The DLWID conducts weekly tests for E. coli at freshwater beaches and major tributaries at the lake. E. Coli themselves, with rare exceptions, are generally harmless, but are correlated with fecal inputs to the lake, which may contain pathogenic agents. Sources for E. coli include humans, birds, cats, dogs, horses and other warm-blooded animals in the watershed.

Should it be determined that toxin levels are potentially harmful to human health, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) would determine how to confront the situation.

http://www.newportnewstimes.com/articles/2008/08/08/news/news04.txt

Health officials today issued a health advisory to avoid contact with the water at Odell Lake in Klamath County because of a bloom of potentially toxic blue-green algae.
Advertisement

The warning was issued jointly by officials with the Deschutes National Forest, the Klamath County Health Department and the Oregon Department of Human Services.

“Water sampling by the Deschutes National Forest has confirmed the presence of blue-green algae that can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals,” said Deanna Conners, with the Office of Environmental Public Health, Oregon Department of Human Services.

These levels are likely to be associated with dangerous toxin concentrations in the water, according to World Health Organization guidelines.

Swallowing or inhaling water droplets should be avoided, as well as skin contact with water by humans or animals.

Drinking water from the lake is especially dangerous. The toxins cannot be removed by boiling, filtering, or treating water.

If you eat fish caught from the lake, health officials say you should remove all fat, skin and organs before cooking since toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues.

Symptoms of numbness, tingling and dizziness can lead to difficulty breathing or heart problems and require immediate medical attention.

If you have skin irritation, weakness, diarrhea, nausea, cramps and fainting, you should get medical attention if the symptoms persist or worsen. Children and pets are particularly susceptible.

http://www.statesmanjournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080807/OUTDOORS/80807010/1034/SPORTS

Lac Simon, a 11-kilometre-long lake north-east of Buckingham, is surrounded by more than 1,000 cottages, has a nice municipal beach at the south end and is the weekend destination for many of the Outaouais' young adults who like to have fun in the sun.

It also has blue-green algae.

Blooms were discovered last week in Baie Yelle and Baie Groulx, on the east side of the lake. On Monday, tests by the Ministry of the Environment showed that the concentration of toxins is not critical. Nevertheless, as a prevention, the municipality recommends that residents neither swim in or drink from the 3,000-hectare lake.

When she heard the news, Lac Simon Property-owners' Association past president Lise Leduc was surprised -- and worried. Surprised, because her lake is quite deep, 100 metres in some spots, and has a current, because the Petite-Nation river runs through it.

Blue-green algae blooms occur where there is shallow, quiet water, explained mayor Serge Thivierge. Council's reaction was to launch an awareness campaign that was planned for September.

"Every resident on the lakeshore is responsible and must see that his actions don't harm the lake," said Mr. Thivierge.

A government publication says that phosphates from fertilizers, septic tanks, the removal of shore vegetation are human factors contributing to the formation of blooms, which can look like broccoli soup.

Last year, as hundreds of lakes across the province were faced with cyanobacteria (blue-green algae's scientific name), the municipality of Lac-Simon, which covers the southern two-thirds of the lake, adopted a bylaw outlawing the use of fertilizer and soaps with phospates and protecting a 10-metre strip of vegetation on the lake's shore.

The municipality, along with its northern neighbour Duhamel, also started a program where every septic installation around the lake would be inspected. But it will take three to five years to do them all. That's too long of a time frame, said Ms. Leduc.

Ivars Sayfy has owned a cottage on Baie Yelle for 40 years. His property is at the edge of the bay, not the far end where blue-green algae were seen last week. He suspects that some of the septic systems are in need of repair or replacement outright. "And we have many other problems contributing to the situation: grass throughout properties, and I have this neighbour who keeps cutting trees down." The cottage owner said that many are ignoring the rule against fertilizing.

The municipality has decided to issue a public warning because the Ministry of the Environment doesn't do it anymore. The ministry only publishes the names of the bodies of water where the toxicity levels are harmful, in seven Quebec lakes so far.

© The Ottawa Citizen 2008

http://www.canada.com/ottawacitizen/news/city/story.html?id=18561c49-52bc-428b-b6aa-cbbbc7fc54db

Recent water samples taken from Lake Utopia have indicated the presence of blue-green algae and microcystins, according to Public Health New Brunswick.
According to a government news release, blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, can grow in waters when appropriate conditions are present. When present in water they can cause skin, eye and throat irritation. Special consideration should be given to those who may be sensitive, such as young children or those with skin conditions.
Activities where water contact occurs should be avoided if surface scum or any highly visible blooms are noted. Blooms may form quite rapidly, so increased awareness is required.
Public Health says in general, caution should be taken when considering the consumption of fish caught in water where major blue-green algal blooms occur. In particular, the viscera of the fish should not be eaten.
Microcystins are substances produced by the algae, and can be harmful to people and pets at very high levels, or if consumed over long periods of time. Their presence in the lake is deemed to be at a low level, so the risk to health would also be low. However as with all untreated water supplies, water from the should not be used for consumption. Boiling will not get rid of toxins.

http://www.wqdy.fm/2008_08_01_archive.html#7880223560501301

*Toxic algae fouls Mona Lake*
Posted by Jeff Alexander | The Muskegon Chronicle
July 30, 2008 10:11AM

Chronicle/Jeff Alexander Don Fischer, who has lived on Mona Lake for 65 years, dips his hands into toxic algae that had built up in a large area across from Mona Lake Park. While toxic algae can be fatal if swallowed, it often caues a rash for those who come into contact with it.

Don Fischer leaned over the side of his boat for a closer look at the grotesque blanket of blue-green algae covering a small part of Mona Lake when he caught a whiff of its nauseating odor.

"Do you smell that? Oh, it smells bad," said Fischer, who has lived on Mona Lake for 65 years.

The foul odor may be the least of his concerns.

Chronicle/Jeff Alexander Blue-green algae in Mona Lake Tuesday. The algae releases bacteria 100 times more toxic than cynide.

A type of algae that releases bacteria 100 times more toxic than cyanide is flourishing in West Michigan lakes, turning some waterways fluorescent green and forming layers of blue-green surface scum that resembles paint.

Scientists recently detected high levels of microcystin LR -- a natural but potentially deadly bacteria released by some types of blue-green algae known as microcystis -- in Muskegon, Mona and Bear lakes.

An algae scum on eastern Mona Lake earlier this month contained microcystin concentrations 220-fold higher than levels considered safe for recreational activities, according to tests conducted by scientists at Grand Valley State University's Annis Water Resources Institute.

"This year the algal blooms are occurring much earlier and are more intense," said Rick Rediske, a GVSU senior research scientist. "People and their pets should avoid contact with these blooms."

Toxic algae blooms are a global problem without a simple solution. The blooms are common in lakes with high levels of phosphorus and those infested with zebra or quagga mussels; the mussels eat beneficial green algae and spit out toxic varieties.

Chronicle/Jeff Alexander Blue-green algae engulfs lily pads in Mona Lake Tuesday.

While fishing in waterways that contain toxic algae is considered safe, officials at the Muskegon County Health Department said swimmers and boaters should avoid coming in contact with any surface algae scum. The county told local government officials about the toxic algae problem affecting local lakes earlier this month but did not inform the public.

Vicky Webster, environmental health supervisor for the county health department, said the county didn't issue a public health advisory because toxic algae blooms can dissipate as quickly as they form. She said it is difficult to effectively inform the public because a shift in the wind can disperse an algae bloom before warnings are issued.

Algae woes Here's a numerical breakdown of toxic algae blooms found this summer in Muskegon, Mona and Bear lakes and recommended health guidelines for waters where the blooms have released dangerous toxins called microcystins. All of the following microcystin concentrations are in parts per billion: 20: Microcystin concentration that poses a moderate risk of health problems to people who swim or boat in affected waters. 20: The microcystin level at which the state of Nebraska closes swimming beaches and posts health advisories urging boaters to use caution on affected lakes. 4,445: Microcystin concentration at Mona Lake Park on July 10. 1,500: Microcystin concentration at Mona Lake Park on July 17. 200: Microcystin concentration at the Fisherman's Landing boat ramp on Muskegon Lake on July 17. 436: Microcystin concentration along the Bear Lake shoreline on June 24. 43: Microcystin concentration in the middle of Bear Lake on July 14. 0: Number of health advisories posted at Muskegon, Mona or Bear lakes in July warning swimmers and boaters about the potentially harmful microcystin levels.

"I would hate for this to make certain beaches off limits," Webster said. "We would hate to close a lake and have the conditions change an hour later."

Experts said it is usually safe to swim and boat in lakes where algae blooms are present, so long as people stay far away from surface scums.

Webster said her department believes the best way to deal with the problem is by educating the public about the dangers of potentially toxic algae.

Fischer questioned how county officials expected to accomplish that when they didn't notify lakefront residents about the elevated microcystin levels that were discovered in area waters.

"I called the county because I wanted to know what action is to be taken by residents," Fischer said. "They told me the algae is best left alone."

Webster said county officials didn't notify the public or the media about the toxic algae in Mona Lake because that would further stigmatize the beleaguered lake.

"It's difficult for people on Mona Lake to stomach that," Webster said. "It's almost like Mona Lake is being held out as the poster child for poor water quality when, in reality, this is a problem across the state."

Not all blue-green algae scums are toxic. But some release toxins like microcystin LR, which can cause rashes, liver cancer and, in rare cases, death, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. Humans, dogs and wildlife in other states and nations have died after ingesting sizable quantities of microcystins.

Some states close lakes to swimmers and boaters when toxic algae blooms are present.

Nebraska closes swimming beaches when microcystin levels exceed 20 parts per billion. Wisconsin health officials closed popular Pewaukee Lake last month when scientists detected high levels of microcystins.

Scientists from GVSU and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Lake Michigan Field Station recently have found microcystin levels as high as 200 parts per billion at the Fisherman's Landing boat launch on Muskegon Lake, and 43 parts per billion in the middle of Bear Lake.

Webster said officials at Fisherman's Landing closed the boat launch for part of a day earlier this month while city officials skimmed a blanket of blue-green algae off the water at the boat launch.

An algae bloom near Mona Lake Park that was sampled on July 10 contained 4,445 parts per billion of microcystin LR, according to GVSU data. The concentration dropped to 1,500 parts per billion a week later and fell to a safe level, 5 parts per billion, by July 22, according to GVSU data.

According to World Health Organization guidelines, microcystin levels above 20 parts per billion pose moderate health risks to boaters and swimmers. Waters coated with visible algae scum pose a high risk of health problems, according to WHO guidelines.

Webster said the health department didn't close the swimming area at Mona Lake Park because it is rarely used and there haven't been any local cases of humans or animals getting sick after swimming in lakes with algae blooms.

"I don't have the science to back up going out and closing beaches," Webster said. "We can only advise people to avoid algae scums."

Chronicle/Krista Schinagl Oil and grease from boats floats on the surface of Mona Lake by the Hidden Cove Park. Enlarge photo

The state of Michigan has no policy on health advisories related to toxic algae blooms.

Local scientists studying the problem said they suspect heavy rains in June and early July washed huge quantities of phosphorus off residential lawns, farms and golf courses and into area lakes. That, coupled with the presence of zebra and quagga mussels in area lakes, has fueled a bumper crop of toxic algae.

"What's so surprising about Muskegon and Bear lakes is that you can sample the water when there are no visible algae scums on the surface and still find high levels of microcystins," said Gary Fahnenstiel, a senior ecologist at NOAA's Lake Michigan Field Station in Muskegon.

The toxic algae problem could worsen in August and September, when water temperatures in area lakes usually peak. Warm water also fuels algae growth.

Laketon Township Supervisor Roland Crummel said the township recently posted informational signs at the Bear Lake beach at Horton Park. He said recurring algae blooms have made the lake less than inviting.

"You hardly ever see anybody swim in the lake anymore," Crummel said.

Chronicle/Krista Schinagl A woman kayaks on Mona Lake by the Lake Harbor Park on Saturday afternoon. Here's how to stay safe if you swim or boat in lakes where potentially toxic blue-green algae is abundant: • Avoid areas where the water is murky, foamy on the surface, looks like pea soup or where there is a visible scum on the water. Blue-green algae scum often looks like floating paint. • Don't swim, boating, water ski, go tubing or kayak through algae scum, which can release toxic chemicals into the air. • Keep children and pets away from blue green algae scum. • If you come in contact with a layer of algae, rinse off with clean water as soon as possible, especially areas covered by your swimsuit. • If a dog swims in scummy water, rinse it off immediately -- do not let it lick the algae off its fur. • Don't irrigate lawns with water that looks like pea soup or smells bad. On the Web • www.glerl.noaa.gov/res/Centers/HABS/habs.html (click on Sampling Data link) • www.muskegonhealth.net (click on Blue-green Algae link) Sources: World Health Organization, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Grand Valley State University, Muskegon County Health Department

http://blog.mlive.com/chronicle/2008/07/a_blooming_problem.html

*Flash on alert for toxic algae*
Wednesday, 30th July 2008

AN OUTBREAK of toxic algae at a Leigh beauty spot this year is one of the worst ever.
And officials are warning people to stay out of the water and make sure their pets don't go in.

Blue-green algae made its unwelcome annual appearance at Pennington Flash earlier in the summer but fears have grown that this year's poisonous bloom
ADVERTISEMENT
s are even larger than usual.

Warm weather during the past week is expected to make the problem worse over the coming days and it has prompted Wigan Council's Environment Agency to issue a further warning urging people not to swim in the water.

Peter Alker, park ranger at Pennington Flash, said: "Our bloom of algae is quite bad compared to the last few years and may get even worse in this warm weather. We want to remind people to stay out of the water and to keep their pets out of it too.
"Water is such an attraction in hot weather and it is particularly worrying when children are off school.
"Permanent warning signs are up at key points but we are keen to get the message across, especially during the school holidays."

Blue-green algae is found naturally in inland waterways while lakes and ponds plus warmer summer weather provide ideal conditions for its growth.
The algae rises to the surface of the water as a scum and looks like blue-green paint.

Eye irritation, vomiting, diarrhoea, skin rashes, muscular pains and fever have occurred in people who have swallowed or been swimming in infected water. The algae can be particularly harmful to animals.
Levels of the algae fluctuate, dispersing in the wind one day but coming back at any time depending on the weather.

Martin Kimber, Wigan Council's director of environmental services, said: "The flashes are popular places, but contact with the algae should be avoided. People should not swim in the water and should keep their pets well away from it."

http://www.leighreporter.co.uk/leigh-news/FLASH-ON-ALERT-FOR-TOXIC.4338567.jp

*Potentially toxic bacteria discovered in the Muddy*
By David Taber
July 25, 2008

They went to try to get a read on how effective efforts to clean up last month’s mineral oil spill on the Muddy River had been, but Charles River Watershed Association (CRWA) staffers got more than they bargained for.
They encountered a potentially toxic blue-green algae bloom.
CRWA Water Resource Specialist David Kaplan told the Gazette it is unlikely that the oil spill and the phosphorus-fed bloom are related.
The bloom was in the Back Bay Fens area and was “at potentially harmful levels, based on guidelines established by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH),” according to a CRWA press release.
The CRWA “did not see any evidence of a bloom in the upstream areas near Jamaica Plain,” as of July 15, CRWA scientist, Julie Wood told the Gazette.
But “things can change fairly quickly,” she said.
She advised dog owners to bring their own water when they go on walks along the river; to think twice before letting their pets swim in the river; and to rinse them off if they do go swimming.
Certain species of blue-green algae—which is also known as cyanobacteria and is not actually an algae—can produce toxins that cause both acute and chronic liver and gastro-intestinal problems if ingested, and can cause a rash if it comes in contact with the skin, Kaplan said.
An overabundance of the bacteria also “prevents light from entering the water, alters water chemistry, and causes extreme changes in oxygen levels, harming fish and other aquatic organisms,” according to a CRWA press release.
He said the blooms are identifiable by their pea soup or neon green colors. The bacteria is fed by phosphorus, a common chemical in urban rainwater runoff, he said.
“We anticipate more blooms based on current weather patterns,” he said.
Low water levels in the river mean it is not flowing as quickly and the recent spate of “pulsing rainstorms” mean plenty of phosphorus-laden runoff is making it into the river, he said.
The CRWA does not have the funding available to conduct systematic testing of the river, Kaplan said.
Researchers at Northeastern University have been planning to conduct a blue-green algae study this summer that includes the Muddy River, Kaplan said. But, especially given how ripe conditions seem to be for the cultivation of the toxic algae, “Money should be set aside by the state,” for a comprehensive monitoring plan, he said.
Anne Monnely, acting director of the state Department of Conservation and Recreation’s Office of Water Resources said testing for toxicity in the Charles is a largely volunteer-based effort. That waterway has been a priority for monitoring because swim races are planned there for this summer, she said.
She is unaware of any plans to up the level of monitoring in the Muddy River, she said.
Wood told the Gazette that the CRWA’s attempts to visually observe the effects of the oil spill cleanup were inconclusive.
“With so much runoff from the roadways and parking lots, it is hard to say conclusively when you see an oil sheen if it is an effect of the spill,” she said.

http://jamaicaplaingazette.com/node/2916

HA-20080724-17716-USA - *Harmful Algal Blooms* - North America - USA

State officials are investigating an unusually large outbreak of algae in the James River at Hopewell. Virginia Commonwealth University biologist Paul Bukaveckas noticed the outbreak, or bloom, late last week. He reported it Tuesday after test results confirmed extremely high concentrations of the microscopic plants. "This is a very large algal bloom," Bukaveckas said yesterday. Outbreaks of algae indicate the water is tainted with excess nutrients from sewage plants and other sources. The algae can quickly multiply during hot, sunny periods when little rain has fallen to wash the nutrients downriver. When the algae die, they consume oxygen, often making waters unfit for fish, crabs and other life. An overdose of nutrients is widely considered the top problem ailing the Chesapeake Bay and its tidal tributaries. "Algal blooms in the James or the bay or any other waters are a sign there is a problem in the water," said Bill Hayden, a spokesman for the state Department of Environmental Quality.

The DEQ has been fighting the pollution by, among other things, putting tougher discharge limits on sewage plants and factories in 2005, Hayden said. Department officials have seen no dead fish or other signs of damage from the outbreak. But Hayden recommended that people not swim in the algae-tainted water. VCU's Bukaveckas said the outbreak stretches for roughly 15 miles from above Hopewell to well below the city. Bukaveckas said the algae were not visible in the main channel of the greenish-brown James, but they slickened the surface in the backwaters. The algae appear to be on the decline now, but they could hang around in significant concentrations for weeks. Algae outbreaks occur persistently around Hopewell. Sewage-plant discharges from the Richmond and Hopewell areas are largely to blame, Bukaveckas said. )

http://hisz.rsoe.hu/alertmap/woalert_read.php?lang=eng&edis=HA-20080724-17716-USA

*Algae bloom closes Halfmoon Pond*
Algae bloom closes Halfmoon Pond
By Rebecca Correa
Staff writer

KINGSTON — State health officials urged residents yesterday to stay out of Halfmoon Pond because of potentially harmful bacteria.
Cyanobacteria blooms were spotted on the surface of the 15-acre pond this week, according to officials at the state Department of Environmental Services.
Cyanobacteria is present in many bodies of water. It only becomes harmful to humans and animals when warm water, bright sunshine and excess phosphorus combine and cause bacteria blooms to develop.
Those blue-green algae blooms were spotted on the Kingston pond's surface, which led the state to post warning notices at the pond.
Jody Connor, a DES limnologist, said residents should stay out of the water and keep their pets out as well.
Contact with or ingestion of the blue-green algae or the water it floats in can lead to skin irritation, nausea, vomiting and, in severe cases, damage to the liver and central nervous system.
Connor said he was uncertain if cyanobacteria has been discovered in Halfmoon Pond in previous years but said the warning will remain in effect until new water samples are taken later this month.
Many neighboring towns have a history with the bacteria that's led to pond closures. Last July, the town beach in Country Pond in Newton was shut down for a month because of the blooms. And in Sandown, cyanobacteria blooms have plagued the 20-acre Showell Pond, keeping residents out of the water for the past five years.

http://www.eagletribune.com/punewsnh/local_story_206010742.html?keyword=topstory

*Ducks die in Sunshine Coast toxic lakes, locals say*
By Lou Robson
July 20, 2008 12:00am

THEY'RE the Sunshine Coast's multimillion-dollar eyesores. Foul man-made lakes have dangerously high nutrient levels and toxic algae that is killing wildlife - 30 ducks in a day, local people say.
Adding to the pollution is a lack of adequate filtering for stormwater run-off.
Sippy Downs residents, 10km inland from Maroochydore, say the "sludge ponds" were once blue but poor planning and even poorer maintenance have turned eight lakes into environmental hazards.
Clean-up estimates for the 1994-built estate range between $4 million and $10 million but a Sunshine Coast Regional Council spokesman said the real figure was about $6 million.
Ratepayers will foot the bill because the lakes were approved without the developer being held to long-term responsibility.
Retiree Keith Whiteside has lived next to Lake 6 for 10 years.
The 72-year-old said he and wife Pam bought their 800sq m block in 1998 to enjoy clean-water views.
However Mr Whiteside said the lakes fast became an unsightly and expensive problem, one that neither council nor developers wanted to address.
"No one wants to take responsibility," he said.
"What we have is a huge problem spread out over eight lakes to various degrees and no one wants to take the rap."
Developers Birchgate and Expectations Pty Ltd built the lakes in 1994 but later sold lakeside Sippy Downs land to various developers, including the West Australian-based Chandon Group.
A Department of Planning and Infrastructure spokesman said development approval for man-made lakes in suburban developments was a local government responsibility, but developers often signed contracts to share or reduce responsibility for such features..
"It seems time, the involvement of numerous developers, and amalgamation have made this a grey area," the spokesman said.
"There's the issue of who will fund the project."
Council budget documents reveal just under $2 million has been allocated to the project, a costly concern that involves draining and rebuilding lakes to keep out harmful nutrients.
Sippy Downs and District Community Association president Murray Lyons said the allocated council funds would cover costs only at Lakes 7 and 8 near waterfront homes.
Mr Whiteside said Lake 6 problems stemmed from unfiltered stormwater run-off and created dangerously high nutrient levels and ongoing toxic algal bloom.
"At one stage we had ducks dying left, right and centre," he said.
"I've got footage of 30 dead ducks in one day."
He said residents were outraged at suggestions of a lake levy to fund repairs.

http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,24044405-3102,00.html

*Quebec not coming clean about algae: watchdog*
BRETT BUNDALE, The Gazette
Friday, July 18, 2008

Blue-green algae may seem to be under control this summer but that is because the government is camouflaging the truth, said Martine Chatelain, a spokesperson for Eau Secours, an environmental coalition on water issues.
"Blue-green algae is still a serious problem, but now we just don't know about it," she said.
Quebec's Environment Department decided to "adjust the level of intervention" this summer with a more "targeted" approach and only advise the public of bacteria levels if there is a ban on drinking or swimming.
Last year the public was informed and lakes closed whenever a significant amount of blue-green algae blooms appeared.
In all, 194 lakes were closed last summer, 83 in 2006 and 45 in 2005. So far this summer only two have been closed: Lac St. Louis in the Mauricie and Lac Bleu in the Montérégie.
"It's a camouflage operation. They're hiding the data so they don't hurt tourism or scare people," Chatelain said.
A spokesperson for Quebec's Environment Department did not return calls yesterday. Quebec launched a $200-million 10-year blue-green algae plan last fall and "continues to act responsibly to combat blue-green algae," according to a news release this month.
Chatelain said she thinks the government has taken some steps in the right direction but that more needs to be done.
"It's good that we finally banned phosphates in detergents but it won't go into effect until 2010. We need solutions now," she said.
Blue-green algae are a bacteria, known as cyanobacteria, that occur naturally in lakes, said Elena Bennett, assistant professor at McGill University's school of environment and department of natural resource sciences. "But we're definitely making it worse."
The blue-green algae explosion is due to a combination of human activity and the right conditions.
"It's like a perfect storm," Bennett said. "It occurs when we have a really wet spring, with lots of rainstorms that wash nutrients off the land and into lakes, followed by a hot and humid summer."
Lakes surrounded by farmland or cottages often have the most blooms because agriculture and lawn fertilizers as well as leaking septic tanks feed the bacteria nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus.
"Just like fertilizers make corn and wheat and soybeans grow, it makes the blue-green algae grow," Bennett said.
Blue-green algae pose a danger to public health because some species of bacteria produce toxins (like neurotoxins) that can poison the water.
"The danger is mostly for children because their bodies are smaller and it's harder for them to process the toxins," Bennett said.
Most blue-green algae, however, is not dangerous and some members of the scientific community felt closing nearly 200 lakes last year was an over-reaction, Bennett said. But given that testing bacteria for toxins is expensive and complicated, it is better to err on the side of caution, she said.
Quebec should do more to legislate the use of fertilizers and cottage owners should "think twice before putting fertilizers on their lawns and take care of their septic tank," Bennett said.

http://www.canada.com/montrealgazette/news/story.html?id=02d50b19-82d7-42
4c-8d3d-d465b2bb11ed

Articles like this one are disturbing. On what basis do Officials claim that the " smelly water is not harmful"? What are the HAB genera and species? Which cyanotoxins have they assessed?

H Kenneth Hudnell, PhD
Director of Science, SolarBee, Inc.

--------------------------------------------------

*Smelly algae hits drinking water*
Posted: July 17, 2008 05:02 PM

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - Does your city water smell and taste bad lately? Lake Michigan algae is the culprit.

Officials at the city water system told 24 Hour News 8 the algae blooms on the lake when water temperatures rise, and the blooms get sucked into the water intake system.
The smelly water is not harmful, and the problem should be cleared up soon.

http://www.woodtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=8693815

*City, watershed have no plans to treat green lakes*...*
By Sarah Kirchner, Albert Lea Tribune
Published Saturday, July 12, 2008

It’s July in Albert Lea. The weather is hot, and the lakes are green.
Algae blooms are in full swing, and neither the city nor the Shell Rock River Watershed District have plans to treat Fountain Lake this year.
In 2007, the lake was green from algae blooms before the Fourth of July and after conversations between the city and the Shell Rock River Watershed District about which government entity should treat the lake, the city finally applied the copper sulfate treatment.
This year, according to Albert Lea Park & Recreation Director Jay Hutchison, the lake treatment was not budgeted for by the City Council, so the city will not apply the treatment.
And according to watershed district Conservationist Andy Henschel, the watershed district does not plan on applying the copper sulfate treatment either.
So Fountain Lake will stay green this year.
The copper sulfate treatment is really only a temporary fix, Hutchison and Henschel both said.
The treatment bonds to the algae and pulls it to the bottom, where the algae and chemicals sit. Strong winds, boating or fish can stir up the bottom sediment, causing algae to bloom in a week or two, Henschel said.
“I don’t think it’s ever good to put chemicals in the lake,” he said, but he added that he doesn’t have the expertise or background to know if the chemicals are harmful.
In the last few years, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ rules and regulations regarding lake treatments have increased and become more stringent, Hutchison said.
It is more difficult to get a permit to apply treatments. The city has to get 50 percent of the private landowners along the lake to sign a document allowing treatment to Fountain Lake, according to Hutchison.
Once the treatment is approved, the city can only treat half the lake at a time with a week in between. And for a period after the treatment, it is recommended that people stay out of the lake, he said.
In addition, the price of the chemicals used to treat the algae blooms is going up. Hutchison said an entire treatment costs $11,000.
“We do not have the money budgeted,” he said.
The treatment could be applied in future years, Hutchison said, but that is up to the City Council through budget decisions.
When Fountain Lake is green, he said he receives calls from landowners and community members asking for the treatment.
Henschel said algae blooms occur because of excess nutrients in Fountain Lake. It is the watershed district’s job, he said, to figure out where the nutrients are coming from and control it.
Fountain Lake didn’t turn green in a year, he said. It has taken many years for the lake to get this way and it will take many years to fix and improve the problem.
“The watershed is truly trying to fix these problems,” Henschel said.
The watershed district is working on a total maximum daily load study of Pickerel, Fountain and Albert Lea lakes. The study should give the watershed district, he said, an indication of where the excess nutrients — particularly phosphorous — are coming from and where to start implementing solutions.
“We’re definitely working on it, it just takes time,” Henschel said.

http://www.albertleatribune.com/news/2008/jul/12/city-watershed-have-no-plans-
treat-green-lakes/

*Potentially harmful algae found in river*...*
By Lisa Rowley, shropshirestar.com
Published Thursday, July 10, 2008

Potentially harmful blue-green algae has been discovered in a river on the Shropshire border, it was revealed today.
Environment Agency (EA) officers made the discovery in the River Meese in the Newport area. The algae, which can be harmful to humans and animals, was also discovered in Aqualate Mere, near Forton, and just over the border into Staffordshire on Monday.
Environmental health officials at Stafford Borough Council have now been notified.
Towards the end of last week it was believed thousands of fish had died after the river turned a blue colour, due to increasing algae activity caused by the hot weather, which exhausted much of the dissolved oxygen in the water.
EA officers examined the algae and identified it as a non-harmful species. The general appearance and colour were not typical of a blue-green algae bloom.
The river was re-oxygenated and the situation was believed to be improving.
However, when EA officials re-visited the river on Monday, they discovered a second, different, algal bloom.
Further inspection revealed it showed characteristics typical of blue-green algae, which can be harmful to humans and animals.
An EA spokesman said: “It was tested in a laboratory, where it was confirmed the concentration of blue-green algae was just above the threshold for us to issue a warning to the local environmental health department which will consider what public health advice is required, if any.

http://www.shropshirestar.com/2008/07/10/potentially-harmful-algae-found-in-river/

*Signs warn about toxic Tualatin River algae*...*
By KEELEY CHALMERS, kgw.com
Published Thursday, July 10, 2008

Toxic algae

A warning to anyone going in or near the Tualatin River this weekend: the water could be toxic.
According to Tualatin Riverkeepers it’s full of an algae that could be harmful to humans and potentially deadly for animals.
On Wednesday the group noticed an unusually large amount of blue-green algae. In some cases blue-green algae can be toxic. As a result signs are now posted warning people to stay out of the water.
A Newschannel 8 crew paddled up the river to see how bad of a problem it is. They found the aqua colored goo scattered across the water.
Brian Wegener is the Watershed Watch Coordinator for Tualatin Riverkeeper. He says he's been paddling the Tualatin for nearly two decades and has never seen anything like this before. Some types of blue-green algae can produce toxins that if ingested can be harmful to humans and pets.
“In Oregon these types of algae blooms can kill 8 or 9 dogs a year in different water bodies this is the first time I’ve seen it in the Tualatin,” said Wegener.
Washington County, today, increased flow from Hagg Lake to help cool the water and clear up the algae. Scientists from the USGS took samples of the water on Wendesday.
It’s currently running tests to if it is indeed toxic. Those tests results should be in tomorrow.

http://www.kgw.com/news-local/stories/
kgw_071008_news_algae_tualatin_river.42408239.html

Algae in floodwaters could cause sickness, death
By Hillary Gavan, Daily News staff writer
Published Thursday, July 9, 2008

Algae may be floating in bodies of water throughout Rock County.

Rock County Health Department officials report that blue-green algae is showing up in local waters. Because it is hard to determine the exact levels of blue-green algae concentrations, anyone considering recreation on or in the water should be cautious.
“If humans ingest it, they could get very sick or even die,” said Rock County Health Officer Dr. Joseph Schurhammer.
Schurhammer said Lake Koshkonong has been identified as a lake with blue-green algae. Although official tests haven't been conducted on Rock County waters, local water bodies are fluorescing at night which is indicative of blue-green algae.
Blue-green algae, technically known at cyanobacteria, are microscopic organisms found naturally in Wisconsin lakes, streams and ponds at low levels. When conditions are favorable, usually in the summer, the blue-green algae can “bloom” dramatically.
Algae blooms may be visible as thick mats or scum on the surface of the water. The scum is often smelly and can be bluish green to red in color.
Blue-green algae need warm temperatures, light, phosphorous and nitrogen to reproduce. Phosphorus and nitrogen are common found in animal waste and in fertilizers.
Schurhammer stressed that no one in Wisconsin has died from blue-green algae yet. Most typically it's pets that get into the contaminated waters.
When cyanobacteria are present in high numbers, some bathers may experience eye, ear, or skin irritation or gastrointestinal problems like vomiting and diarrhea. Toxins may also cause nerve or liver problems in people or animals that are exposed to them in large amounts.
Signs of poisoning appear between a couple of hours to several days following exposure.
Pets that have been swimming in an areas with an algae bloom may ingest significant amounts of toxins by licking their fur after leaving the water.
Not all cyanobacteria have blooms that are visible, and not all cyanobacteria produce harmful toxins. Between 30 and 50 percent of blooms are from non-toxic species of cyanobacteria.
If someone develops symptoms consistent with cyanotoxin exposure, he or she should contact their physician or the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

http://www.beloitdailynews.com/articles/2008/07/09/news/local_news/news08.txt

*Blue green algae spurs George Lake petition*...*
Tuesday July 08, 2008
by Devon Peterson

A 10-page petition to dredge George Lake was filled with names of concerned citizens over the Canada Day weekend.
Randy Braurer, owner of the local Subway, left the petition by the cash register of the restaurant at the beginning of the long weekend. Braurer, along with Hines Creek’s Dave Godberson are spearheading the petition but have decided to remain tight-lipped about the motivation behind the initiative. Neither of them would field questions from the Post when contacted.
Recently, local residents have made calls to Alberta Environment about the current condition of the lake. Reports of blue-green algae in the water have raised concerns about the safety of the lake. Peace Country Health (PCH) is aware of the health hazard the lake may present. A representative from PCH has begun an investigation into the condition of the lake. Kayedon Wilcox, district manager Sustainable Resource Development in Peace River, said warm weather conditions, like we have had recently, allow the algae to thrive. The blue-green algae are a native species to lakes in Alberta, and are a natural part of the ecological system.
"Not all of these blooms are toxic," said Julie Siddons, from Environment Alberta.
In Alberta, there are two strains of blue-green algae. Only one of these strains is toxic. The toxic strain releases poisons into the water during decomposition. These toxins can be harmful when ingested by people or animals.
Blue-green algae blooms are more frequent in the nutrient rich lakes of southern Alberta, but are known to appear in lakes in the northern parts of the province.
"The toxic and non-toxic strains often occur at the same time," Siddons said.
The investigation into the lake will determine if the toxic algae is present in the water. If it is present, it will not pose a serious health risk to people, said Siddons. Symptoms of people or animals affected with the toxins include vomiting, diarrhea, a sever headache, and a sever rash. Any persons or animals showing these symptoms should seek medical attention, said Siddons.
There is no way to remove the algae from the water. Parents and animal owners may need to pay attention to animals and children while around the water. Signs are already posted requesting visitors to stay out of the water.
Any persons with concerns or seeking more information on blue-green algae are asked by Environment Alberta to phone their toll free hotline 1-800-222-6514.

Pictured above, Algae clouds the water at George Lake. Recently, the appearance of the algae has caused some concern with local residents, enough to spur a petition by two locals. Alberta Environment has received calls, and is taking steps to warn visitors about the blooms of the possibly toxic algae. Blue-green algae can be lethal to fish, and can cause people and animals to become sick if the water is ingested. The algae thrives in warm summer weather, such as the weather we have had this year.
(Submitted photo)

http://www.fairviewpost.com/News/410018.html

*Blue-green algae returns at Sand Lake*...*
Patrick Springer, The Forum
Published Thursday, July 03, 2008

LAKE PARK, Minn. – Toxic blue-green algae blooms, which can be harmful to people and pets, have returned to Sand Lake.
Neighbors said Wednesday that the algae bloom first appeared last week in a public access area along the western shore of the lake, which straddles the border of Clay and Becker counties.
“There was stuff floating right by our dock – blue-green algae,” said Heidi Juhnke, whose home is on the western shore of the lake near Clay County Road 118.
Dan Olson of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency in Detroit Lakes confirmed the algae bloom Tuesday afternoon. The bloom was not as severe as one reported July 3 last year, which triggered a surveillance program of Sand Lake and related lakes in a chain of lakes, with monthly water samples taken for chemical analysis.
Levels found in the same area of Sand Lake last year had the potential to suffocate fish, resulting in fish kills.
The sample Olson took Tuesday hasn’t yet been analyzed to identify algae species or concentrations to determine whether toxicity levels were high enough to pose a health threat.
The MPCA, which so far has received 14 calls reporting algae blooms in Minnesota lakes, has not received any reports of dog deaths attributed to algae. That compares to 18 calls reporting algae concerns in 11 lakes and three dog deaths last year by June 2, Olson said.
Health officials advise people to avoid swimming and keep animals out of lake areas where blue-green algae is present. Toxic concentrations often are found in shallow water near shore, but deeper areas often have lower concentrations, Olson said.
Juhnke, who takes water clarity readings that she reports to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, says the water has become much cloudier in recent weeks.
Visibility was 24 feet on May 31 at a spot where water depth is 30 feet, but fell to 5 feet by June 29, her most recent reading. She attributes the degradation to recent heavy rains and hot weather.
MPCA officials identified a bay of Axberg Lake, located upstream from Sand Lake in a chain of lakes, as a “potential pollution hazard,” in 1975. The bay once was used as a sewage lagoon for up to 200,000 chickens at a poultry farm owned by the late Allen Baer.
MPCA staff members have expressed concerns for years about the possibility contamination from Axberg Lake could spread downstream to other lakes in the chain. Manure is rich in phosphorus, a nutrient that is the prime culprit in algae blooms.
Zenas Baer, a lawyer who represents his family, has said the family has offered to complete a project to isolate Axberg Lake, at an estimated cost of up to $50,000, but wants to be released from future liability in return. He said there has been no proof that algae blooms in Sand Lake are caused by runoff from Axberg Lake. Talks between the Baers and MPCA continue, Olson said.

Readers can reach Forum reporter Patrick Springer at (701) 241-5522

http://www.in-forum.com/articles/index.cfm?id=206994

*Health advisory issued for Willow Creek Reservoir*...*
July 2, 2008
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SolarBee Science Office Response
The blue-greens have already bloomed in Willow Creek, OR. Although the report below does not identify the cyanobacteria genera, past years have seen blooms of Anabaena species. Anabaena can make anatoxins, among other cyanotoxins. Anatoxins are potent toxins with specific mechanisms of action in the nervous system. Swallowing a mouth full of water with high levels of anatoxins could lead to uncontrolled muscle spasm and seizures, followed by paralysis and death through respiratory failure. Lower doses, perhaps obtained through respiration of the mists around the lake, may cause respiratory distress and a multi-system, flu-like illness. I certainly would not eat any fish caught in this or other water bodies with cyanobacterial blooms. My research colleague, Ritchie Shoemaker, MD, and I have published scientific articles on the use of cholestyramine to greatly enhance biotoxin elimination rates and help ill people recover. The only other treatment is supportive therapy. Cholestyramine can also be used prophylactically to lessen the impact of exposure. A summary article of cholestyramine therapy, as well as the use of visual contrast sensitivity to aid diagnosis, can be obtained in SolarBee's Science Peer-reviewed Articles pages, and here. Also, slides from a talk given during June, 2008, at a conference in Costa Rica on human illness from residential and recreational exposure to microcystins can be seen on the Conference Slides page of SolarBee's website Science section.
SolarBee will begin a pilot study in Willow Creek on Monday, July 7, 2008. The pilot study is a collaboration between SolarBee and researchers Frank Wilhelm, PhD, University of Idaho, and Theo Dreher, PhD, Oregon State University. The purpose of the pilot study is to test hypotheses concerning the mechanism(s) through which SolarBee's Long Distance Circulation technology inhibits harmful algal blooms (HABs).
Please avoid even downwind contact with water bodies experiencing HABs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has an article in press that shows cyanotoxins are in the air near water bodies experiencing HABs and can be inhaled by humans.
Lorraine C. Backer, Wayne Carmichael, Barbara Kirkpatrick, Christopher
Williams, Mitch Irvin, Yue Zhou, Trisha B. Johnson, Kate Nierenberg,
Vincent R. Hill, Stephanie M. Kieszak, and Yung-Sung Cheng.
Recreational exposure to low concentrations of microcystins during an
algal bloom in a small lake. Marine Toxins. 2008, in press.

H Kenneth Hudnell, PhD
Director of Science, SolarBee, Inc

--------------------------------------------------
3:15 p.m.
*Health advisory issued for Willow Creek Reservoir*...*
Download a PDF of this story
Statesman Journal: July 2, 2008

A health alert was issued today for Willow Creek Reservoir near Heppner because of a bloom of toxin-producing blue-green algae.
Officials with the Oregon Department of Human Services and the Morrow County Health Department jointly issued the advisory.
Tests have confirmed that the algae is in concentrations that can produce toxins that are harmful to both humans and animals.
You should avoid contact with the water until the health advisory is lifted.
If you decide to eat fish caught at Willow Creek, health officials said you should cut out all fat, skin and organs before cooking because the toxins concentrate there.
Exposure to the toxins can cause numbness, tingling and dizziness, which can lead to difficulty breathing or create heart problems that require immediate medical attention.
Other symptoms can include skin irritation, weakness, diarrhea, nausea, cramps and fainting, any or all of which also require medical attention if they persist or get worse.
Children and pets are especially susceptible.

http://www.statesmanjournal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=
/20080702/OUTDOORS/80702013/1034/SPORTS

*Algae analysis: Study to look for cause of Little Rock Lake’s woes*...*

Like mosquitoes and humidity, blue-green algae may be becoming a staple of Minnesota summers.
After a late, cool spring, the potentially toxic plants have begun to bloom. This is especially true as the weather warms and sunlight increases, especially in small, shallow lakes statewide.
One of the worst hit last year was Little Rock Lake, just south of Rice. This year, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency added Little Rock to its final 2008 list of impaired waters. With an average depth of 8 feet, the lake is a perfect blooming ground for blue-green algae.
“It’s a shallow lake with a lot of surface area. It doesn’t take long for the lake to heat up,” Annie Felix said. Felix is a water plan technician with the Benton County Soil and Water Conservation District, which has decided to undertake a study of lake’s problem.
This year doesn’t look to be as bad for the lake as last year, because of the weather. However, the algae has started to surface, especially in the past three weeks.
Residents and government officials are starting to fight back.

Battle plan
Felix is heading a study to identify the lake’s total maximum daily load of nutrients and where the excess is coming from. Phosphorous and nitrogen act as a fertilizer for the algae, and Little Rock Lake is rich in phosphorous.
The study began June 18 and will last until 2010. Researchers will sample the five creeks that feed the lake, six locations around lake and where the lake drains into the Mississippi River, as well as sediment from the lake bottom. They also will study samples from deep in the ground to see what the lake acted like before humans settled the area.
“That will help us set goals for how good of water quality the lake can obtain,” Felix said.
After collection, the data will be analyzed to determine where the phosphorus is coming from and how much of it there is. That will lead to a plan to reduce the loads and manage what is there.

Waiting it out
For now, residents are stuck with it. Because blue-green algae can be harmful to animals and humans, that means keeping the community informed and out of danger areas.
“The first important thing is staying out of the water when the quality looks bad,” said Steve Heiskary, a research scientist with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. “Most humans aren’t likely to consume water that looks like this, but dogs are more than willing.”
Some areas on lakes are more prone to blooms than others. Small bays and coves are perfect because they are typically shallow and out of the wind. Large amounts of algae also can be blown into these nooks and accumulate.
Marilynn Corcoran has a lake home on one of those bays. When her family arrived there Friday night, the shoreline was coated with green and “painter’s tape blue” scum.
But a few days later, the wind changed and blew the algae elsewhere.
“We were thankful for that, but we felt sorry for the people who had it on their side,” Corcoran said.

Prevention
As president of the Little Rock Lake Association, Bruce Christofferson is at the head of the movement to keep the community informed of developments on the algae front. Beyond safety, Christofferson urges homeowners to take preventive measures to minimize growth.
“We advocate that you don’t fertilize right up to the water,” Christofferson said. “Create a buffer zone.”
The residents realize there is no quick fix.
“If somebody could wave a magic wand, they’d do it,” Corcoran said.
Community members are more aware and concerned than in the past. And after years of the problem, they are relieved that some action is finally happening.
“Until the total maximum daily load study is complete, we’re all kind of in limbo,” Christofferson said. “But at least we got the wheels of government pointed in the right direction.”

http://www.sctimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080702/NEWS01/107020032/1009

*Plague of Algae Puts New Twist on Beijing's Green Olympics Bid*...*
By Wing-Gar Cheng
------------------------------------------------------------------------
June 27 (Bloomberg) -- Beijing Olympics organizers grappling to cut pollution in time for the Summer Games face a new threat: a plague of algae at the sailing venue in Qingdao.
The eastern city's coastline has become caked in a layer of blue-green algae, including at the site of the Olympic sailing competitions taking place from Aug. 9-13.
``It's a climatic disaster and we can only hope the heavens will be kind to us in August,'' said Wang Haitao, the city's chief spokesman, in a phone interview today.
Warmer waters, increased rainfall and high levels of nutrients in the ocean brought about the algae explosion along vast stretches of the 800-kilometer (500-mile) coastline, according to the Qingdao Weather Bureau.
Qingdao, located 830 kilometers from Beijing, is mobilizing more than 1,000 fishing boats to scoop up the algae and contain the outbreak, Wang said.
``We can only haul the blue-green algae manually and we're doing all we can with our arms full and by the boat-load,'' said Wang, a sailing spokesman for the Beijing Games organizing committee. ``All you can see is fishing boats along the coast.''
Beijing officials, who have labeled this year's event the ``Green Olympics,'' are shutting factories and taking cars off the road in a bid to reduce pollution in time for the Aug. 8 opening ceremony. The International Olympic Committee has said it will reschedule events if smog threatens athletes' health.
The clean-up operation on Qingdao's waters was starting to take effect, Wang said.
``The blue-green algae are becoming less visible as we soldier on,'' he said.
Qingdao's government is spending 3.28 billion yuan ($478 million) on a sailing dock and facilities for the Olympics.

Last Updated: June 27, 2008 02:52 EDT

*Bacteria poisons dams and rivers*...*
Bobby Jordan Published:Jun 14, 2008
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CSIR sounds alarm about spread of toxic organism harmful to human health
11% of SA’s major dams have had ‘significant to severe’ problems.
Toxic bacteria known to be harmful to human health have been found in many if not most of South Africa’s rivers and reservoirs.
The organism grows in rivers disturbed by human activities such as farming, mining and waste-water treatment.
The contamination is rapidly getting worse due to controversial government water-quality guidelines that some scientists have opposed for years.
These are some of the findings contained in a new research report by the Centre for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), finalised earlier this year.
The report says the bacteria, known as cyanobacteria or blue- green algae, have recently been found “in many if not most of the river and reservoir systems” that supply most of South Africa’s drinking water.
The report also warns that many South Africans may be drinking water contaminated with the bacteria: “The deemed health risk to humans in South Africa is via long-term chronic exposure to low levels of cyanotoxins (produced by the algae) in water used for drinking and domestic uses because it is estimated that only 21% of South African households have access to piped water inside their houses,” the CSIR report says.
These figures coincide with a written submission to Parliament last week by the Minister of Water Affairs, Lindiwe Hendricks, confirming a major threat of possible bacterial “blooms” in 58% of dams monitored by government water- quality inspectors.
The dams include:
# Hartbeespoort and Rietvlei in Gauteng;
# Shongweni outside Durban; and
# Theewaterskloof and Voëlvlei in the Western Cape.
Hendricks confirmed 11% of South Africa’s major dams had already shown “significant to severe algal and cyanobacterial blooms”.
The bacteria, whose outbreaks resemble scum, reduce the level of oxygen in the water and can produce toxins that are harmful to humans. The CSIR report says conventional treatment does not remove all the toxins before water is piped to households.
Dr Anthony Turton, a CSIR scientific spokesman, said: “The toxin from cyanobacteria is complex and resembles cobra venom in some ways. In some forms it (the toxin) is carcinogenic and in other forms potentially lethal, at least in laboratory tests. It is serious stuff, so we need to invest in more science to understand and thus manage it.
“This is not a luxury for some crazy scientist to feed his curiosity on; it is a national problem of great strategic importance that we simply have to get right.”
The CSIR study, titled State of the Nation Report, highlights problems with national water treatment regulations, which allow “an inappropriately high” level of harmful phosphates in water treated in sensitive catchment areas. Phosphates, commonly found in crop fertilisers and industrial waste, encourage the growth of cyanobacteria.
“Since the promulgation of the effluent phosphate standard, the water quality in South Africa’s rivers and reservoirs has deteriorated rapidly,” the report says.
“A thorough review and revision of the country’s effluent quality standards is needed if these human health risks are to be reduced.”
This week the Sunday Times has also established that:
# The Department of Water Affairs and Forestry is concerned about several rivers that may soon be unfit for drinking or irrigation. This follows news that department officials have intervened to stop people drinking from the Tweelopies Spruit, a tributary of the Crocodile River. The river has been affected by mining;
# The government has identified 142 high-risk waste-water treatment facilities countrywide affected by poor infrastructure and asset management. The minister has described the situation as “a cause for huge concern”;
# Scientists believe the recent spate of crocodile deaths around the Kruger National Park are linked to cyanobacteria blooms. The animals are believed to have eaten toxic fish. There is growing concern over unexplained wildlife deaths; and
# Many poor communities in rural areas rely on drinking water from contaminated dams and rivers for themselves and their livestock.
*Toxic water facts*
# Water polluted with cyanobacteria can cause illness in humans and death in animals.
# Human contact with heavily polluted water can lead to headaches, fever, nausea and irritated skin.
# Children are at greater risk than adults.
# Boiling the water does not remove the toxins.
# Washing clothes and bathing in contaminated water should be avoided.

http://www.thetimes.co.za/News/Article.aspx?id=785066

*This Summer Could Lead To More Dead Fish In Harbor*...*
Reporting: Weijia Jiang

BALTIMORE (WJZ) ― A gloomy summer is on the horizon for the aqua life that lives in the Chesapeake Bay.
A new forecast just out shows the lowest oxygen levels and highest number of pollutants in the bay since 1985. Weijia Jiang reports it's a mix that is sure to kill.
One fish here and a few fish there, but last June, there were 5,000 fish, all belly-up in Baltimore's Inner Harbor.
Scientists point to harmful algae as the cause. They say this summer even more dead fish could turn up.
"They can't go into the bottom water cause there's not enough oxygen and in the surface waters, we have these harmful algal blooms that are often toxic so they get squeezed between the top and the bottom and they have less habitat," said Dr. Bill Dennison.
A recent University of Maryland study shows harmful algae is thriving underwater, a result of an increase in nutrients coming from above. In fact, the numbers show pollution levels are the sixth worst ever.
"There's nothing in the cooler now. I've been out here six hours. The only thing in here is ice," said fisherman Bud Jones.
Jones has been fishing the Chesapeake Bay for more than six decades. Unlike years past, he comes home empty-handed more often than not.
"I think it's gonna get worse. The color of the water when I grew up on Kent Island, the water was more clear, you could see. You wade out into the water now, you can't even see your ankles and you're only in this deep of water," he said.
Researchers say the nets stay empty thanks to man-made pollution, so whether it's driving, farming, even turning on a light switch, all the runoff ends up right into the water.
"I know it's difficult. I know the progress has been slow but we're only going to be successful in restoring the bay with determination and patience. So people need to support wise policies and they need to hold us all, scientists and political leaders, accountable for progress and the outcome," said Dr. Donald Boesch.
Dr. Boesch urges people to conserve energy to reduce pollution. He says it's the only way to keep this from happening.
Researchers plan to track the water pollution all summer. They won't know exactly how much damage there is until the fall.

(© MMVIII, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
http://wjz.com/local/inner.harbor.dead.2.754125.html

*Algae bloom returns to Caloosahatchee*...*

Olga Water Treatment Plant shut down
By Kevin Lollar • klollar @ news-press.com • June 14, 2008

The Caloosahatchee River has gone green above the W.P. Franklin Lock & Dam: Blue-green algae are back.
During the extremely wet summers of 2004 and 2005, blue-green algal blooms appeared several times in the river, fueled in part by nutrients in water released from Lake Okeechobee.
Because lake levels are so low - 9.33 feet Wednesday - water managers aren't releasing water down the Caloosahatchee.
"It's difficult to tell what causes these things," said Dean Powell, director of the South Florida Water Management District's Watershed Management Department. "There's not always a smoking gun. There's not always an upstream source. Studies indicate that these things sequester themselves in the sediments, and as water gets warm, and we get more sunshine, they come out of the sediments."
The bloom prompted Lee County Utilities to shut down the Olga Water Treatment Plant on June 5, spokeswoman Patty DiPiero said.
"We shut it down as soon as we started seeing it and smelling it," she said. "We did it because of taste and odor issues. Those blooms bring a musty, earthy smell to the water, and because demands were low enough, we were able to shut it down."
Officials don't know how long the plant will be down.
The organism behind the bloom is Anabaena, which produces many types of toxin. It occurs naturally in freshwater systems worldwide.

http://www.news-press.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080614/NEWS0103/806140
381/1005/ACC

*Strathclyde Park watersports ban is removed*..*

A BAN on water sports at Strathclyde Loch was this week lifted.
Water skiers, wind surfers and canoeists were barred last month after an unusual algae bloom.
The British Age Group Sprint Triathlon Championships, due to be held in the park, was cancelled because of the problem.
The algae was first discovered after dead fish began appearing on the shores of the loch early in May.
The Scottish Environmental Protection Agency carried out water testing and identified the presence of the Chrysochromulina parva (C. parva) phytoplankton.
While not known to be harmful to humans, the algae is related to another species that has been known to cause skin irritations in humans and health problems in animals.
North Lanarkshire Council responded by cancelling all immersion activities at the loch.
A spokesman said further testing last week revealed that water conditions had returned to normal, and restrictions could be lifted.
“The full range of watersports activities has now been reinstated,” said John Turnbull, the council’s countryside and landscape manager.
“However, I would take this opportunity to remind people that such activities are only allowed when properly organised and supervised, and that they should not enter the water unless authorised to do so.”
Council chiefs took the decision to cancel the triathlon event after consultation with SEPA and NHS Lanarkshire
They began talks with the organisers aimed at rescheduling the championships for later in the year or identifying an alternative venue.
Signs were put up around the loch advising people not to go into the water.
Dog owners were also advised to keep their pets out of the water because of the algae bloom.
The warm weather in May is thought to have been responsible for the growth of the algae

http://www.hamiltonadvertiser.co.uk/news/local-news/hamilton-news/2008/06/19/strathclyde-park-watersports-ban-is-removed-51525-21096679/