Harmful Algae Blooms (HABS)

 
 
 

Harmful algae blooms (HABS) have become a major environmental problem throughout the mid-Atlantic region. Nutrient pollution provides the food/fuel for algae to grow out of control, or “bloom” in a very short period of time. HABS result from the rapid growth, or bloom, of algae that can cause harm to animals, people, or the local environment.

HABS can look like foam, scum, or mats on the surface of water and can be different colors. HABS can occur in warm fresh, marine, or brackish waters with abundant nutrients.

There are many organisms that produce harmful algal blooms and harmful algal blooms may have many have different names.

Harmful algae blooms should be treated immediately as part of a rapid response protocol that includes waterbody closure.

A harmful algal bloom can cause harm by:

  • Producing toxins that can poison humans, fish, seabirds, aquatic animals, livestock, wildlife, and household pets (such as dogs) that are near the water, drink the water, or swim in the water.

  • Causing illness when a person or animal eats fish or shellfish contaminated with algal toxins.

  • Becoming dense enough to keep sunlight from reaching the lower depths of the water.

  • Removing the oxygen from the water as it decomposes, starving fish and plants of oxygen, and damaging the local ecology.

IMG-3805.JPG

To identify/confirm the presence of a harmful algae, a water sample should be taken and analyzed by an aquatic specialist. Black Lagoon provides water testing and monitoring services.

 
 

Harmful Algae Bloom - RAPID RESPONSE / TREATMENT

While closing a waterbody and posting signs can keep humans and pets from contact with harmful algae, algae will continue to grow out of control unless treated. Black Lagoon’s 20+ years of experience has proven that when executed safely and effectively, a regular, low-dose application of algicides by licensed, certified aquatic professionals is overwhelmingly successful in algae management, particularly where budget is limited.

 
 
IMG_5279.JPG

Black Lagoon also recommends some site-specific alternatives to using chemicals for plant and algae control management in lakes and ponds. Some environmentally friendly and effective control methods used to promote attractive and healthy lakes and ponds include:

  • Fish Stocking

  • Biological Augmentation

  • Phosphorus Removal

  • Mechanical Pond Cleaning

  • Goose Control

    Read more about these methods in our Pond & Lake Management section: