Dealing with toxic algae? Start by managing nutrient levels
If you’re someone who enjoys spending time outdoors, you may often find yourself relishing every opportunity to be out on the water with friends and family. However, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks associated with Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) in ponds and recreational lakes. The root cause of Harmful Algal Blooms is often an excess of nutrients, particularly phosphorus, in the water. When nutrients are abundant in the water, plants and toxic algae are more likely to proliferate. Fortunately, Aquatic Experts have several tools to restore nutrients to more balanced levels, so you can maximize your time on the water with peace of mind.
First, it’s important to understand the role nutrients play in fueling Harmful Algal Blooms, as well as their associated health and safety risks.
Where do excess pond nutrients come from?
Phosphorus is naturally present in the bottom sediments and suspended in the water column. As plants, aquatic wildlife, and other organic materials die off and decompose, phosphorus is released, leading to a gradual increase in nutrient levels. However, human activities can overwhelm aquatic ecosystems by rapidly introducing external nutrients. During storms, garden fertilizers, runoff from dog parks, sewage, trash, debris from roads and construction sites, and other pollutants are swept up by rain as it flows into nearby waterbodies.
Why are Harmful Algal Blooms dangerous?
The cyanobacteria (also known as blue-green algae) that comprise these blooms can produce toxins that are deadly to fish, wildlife, and pets, particularly dogs. People can be exposed to cyanotoxins during water activities, but toxins can also become airborne. Side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, and throat irritation, and prolonged exposure may lead to the development of neurological conditions, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention [1].
How are Harmful Algal Blooms identified?
Unlike the thick and stringy mats that may come to mind when thinking about algae, Harmful Algal Blooms are microscopic, single-cell organisms that typically resemble spilled blue, white, or bright green paint or dye on the surface. Toxic algae blooms can appear in a swirling pattern or be concentrated around the perimeter of the shoreline. Not all blooms are harmful, but visual inspections cannot confirm the absence of toxins. Avoid swimming and keep pets and livestock away from water until an Aquatic Expert can conduct laboratory tests.
How are Harmful Algal Blooms controlled?
Managing Harmful Algal Blooms can be complicated. Aquatic algaecides can be used to rapidly eliminate a toxic algae bloom. However, additional toxins can be released during the die-off process and may remain present for several weeks. Ultimately, the best way to protect humans and animals from Harmful Algal Blooms is by proactively applying nutrient remediation products that help “deactivate” nutrients before they can contribute to harmful algae growth. Aquatic Experts will consider the size and use of a waterbody when selecting the appropriate product.
Alum
Alum sulfate, commonly called alum, is a naturally occurring substance found in the earth’s crust that has been used for over half a century for water quality management. Once applied to water, alum forms a dense floc that captures free-floating nutrients. Then, it settles over the bottom where it “locks up” additional phosphorus in the bottom sediments. Following an effective application, water clarity should rapidly improve and the positive results can potentially last for several decades.
Alum is well-studied and extremely safe for humans and wildlife when applied by licensed professionals. SOLitude has restored over 35,000 acres of water across hundreds of alum projects. Our custom-built vessels are equipped with precision pumps, integrated GPS tracking, and pH monitoring systems to help maintain the highest level of safety and achieve the best possible outcome.
In addition to our capabilities, we have the knowledge and experience to guide clients through complex permitting processes to ensure regulatory compliance, and can assist stakeholders in pursuing grants and funding.
For smaller ponds or areas with running water, experts may use two other nutrient-remediation solutions:
Lanthanum-modified clay
Lanthanum-modified clay is a naturally occurring substance that binds with phosphorus in the water column. This binding process effectively removes phosphorus from the water column, making it unavailable to toxic algae. This tool is particularly well-suited for smaller stormwater ponds where it can be easily applied. It’s also extremely safe, with minimal impacts on aquatic species.
Phosphorus filtration bags
Phosphorus filtration bags are designed to capture and remove phosphorus from flowing water. These porous bags are placed in streams, ditches, or other areas where water moves, trapping phosphorus particles before they can enter larger waterbodies and contribute to harmful algae growth. Phosphorus filtration bags are simple to introduce and can serve as a low-cost, low-maintenance solution for preventing nutrient loading. Once filled, they are removed and disposed of.
Prevent Toxic Algal Blooms by Managing Nutrient Levels
Managing nutrient levels is a critical step in combating toxic algae blooms, but incorporating other proactive measures can help further safeguard your waterbody from Harmful Algal Blooms. Ongoing water quality monitoring, foundations and aeration, mechanical hydro-raking, shoreline restoration and management, and other sustainable solutions can help maintain balanced conditions, so you can soak in every memorable moment on the water, whether you’re swimming, kayaking, fishing, or playing with your furry companion.
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Contact Us for Nutrient Management Solutions
[1] Center for Disease Control (CDC)
SOLitude Lake Management is a nationwide environmental firm committed to providing sustainable solutions that improve water quality, enhance beauty and preserve natural resources.
SOLitude’s team of aquatic scientists specializes in the development and execution of customized lake, stormwater pond, wetland and fisheries management programs. Services include water quality testing and restoration, algae and aquatic weed control, installation and maintenance of fountains and aeration systems, shoreline erosion control, muck and sediment removal and invasive species management. SOLitude partners with homeowners associations, golf courses, private landowners, businesses and municipalities. SOLitude Lake Management is part of Rentokil, a leading business services company, operating across the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.
For more information, visit SOLitude Lake Management at solitudelakemanagement.com, and connect on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
