An algal bloom refers to rapid and excessive algae growth in our lakes, rivers, or oceans. Algal blooms can occur naturally, but they are often fueled by environmental factors that promote growth like warm temperatures, sunlight, still water conditions, and abundant nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus.
During an algal bloom, the water turns green, red, brown, or blue-green. The water has a murky or cloudy appearance, and in severe cases, the bloom may form dense mats or scum on the water’s surface.
While some algal blooms are harmless, others pose risks to your health. These harmful algal blooms (HABs) involve the rapid growth of toxic algae species that produce harmful compounds or toxins known as cyanotoxins, which can cause skin irritation, respiratory problems, gastrointestinal illness, and, in severe cases, neurological effects, or even death! So, yes, they are a threat to your health!
A multi-stage water filtration system, like what’s found in our premium alkaline water ionizers will protect you and your family.
In recent years, several incidents of HAB-related illnesses have been reported in the US, particularly in states with warm climates and abundant water bodies.
1) Great Lakes Region: The Great Lakes, particularly Lake Erie, have experienced recurring algal blooms, primarily caused by excessive nutrient runoff from agriculture and other sources. These blooms have led to issues with drinking water supplies in cities like Toledo, Ohio, where harmful algal toxins have prompted temporary shutdowns of the water system.
2) Midwest Region: Various states in the Midwest, including Iowa, Illinois, and Minnesota, have reported algal bloom-related concerns in lakes, rivers, and reservoirs that impact drinking water sources. Nutrient runoff from agricultural practices significantly contributes to this region’s algal blooms.
3) Gulf Coast Region: The Gulf Coast states, such as Florida, Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, have experienced algal blooms and associated water quality issues. Red tide events caused by the dinoflagellate Karenia brevis have impacted coastal areas, affecting marine life and drinking water supplies.
4) West Coast: States along the West Coast, including California, Oregon, and Washington, have also dealt with algal blooms affecting water quality. Harmful algal blooms, including those caused by the species Pseudo-nitzschia, have produced toxins like domoic acid, leading to closures of shellfish harvesting areas and occasional concerns about drinking water supplies.
5) Northeast Region: The Northeastern states, such as New York, Vermont, and New Hampshire, have encountered algal bloom issues in certain water bodies. Blooms in Lake Champlain, for example, have led to concerns about water quality and impacts on drinking water treatment.
Human activities such as agricultural runoff, industrial discharges, and inadequate wastewater treatment contribute to HABs. Drought conditions, animal agriculture, and factories have increased HABs and caused significant harm to us. Here is a sampling of the lawsuits our public water systems have faced:
1) Toledo, Ohio (2014): In 2014, a harmful algal bloom in Lake Erie led to elevated levels of toxins in the drinking water supply of Toledo, Ohio. As a result, a state of emergency was declared, and residents were advised not to consume or use tap water. The incident resulted in several lawsuits against entities believed to contribute to the nutrient pollution causing the bloom, including agricultural operations and water treatment facilities.
2) Lake Erie Watershed (Ongoing): The persistent algal blooms in Lake Erie have prompted legal actions to address the issue. Environmental organizations and advocacy groups have filed lawsuits against federal and state agencies, alleging inadequate regulation and enforcement of water pollution standards. These lawsuits seek to compel more stringent regulations on nutrient runoff from agricultural operations and other sources.
3) Harmful Algal Blooms in Various States: Lawsuits have been filed in other states, including Florida and Mississippi, where harmful algal blooms have impacted water quality, recreational activities, and businesses. These lawsuits often involve claims related to property damage, economic losses, or health impacts associated with exposure to algal toxins.
Your public water system works to identify and treat HABs before they harm the public. But, as you can see from the above lawsuits, they are not always successful. The best thing you can do is protect yourself and your family by using a multi-stage water filtration system like what’s found inside our premium alkaline water ionizers.
