Harmful Algal Blooms

RSC Involvement in Harmful Algal Bloom Monitoring and Research

The RSC collaborates with the Erie County Department of Health, the Department of Conservation of Natural Resources, and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection to monitor for harmful algal blooms. The RSC samples more than 15 locations around Presque Isle Bay once per week from Memorial Day to Labor for algal toxins. The toxin concentrations at each location are relayed to ECDH, DEP, and DCNR park managers which, in turn, post advisory signs at necessary locations. The RSC monitors a variety of algal concentrations in real-time using probes outfitted on the Beach 2 buoy and Nearshore Buoy. For real-time data between May and October, visit the RSC buoy website: www.PALakeErieBuoy.com. Thanks to PA Sea Grant for compiling the following information, which is also found here.

Local HAB Advisories

Current HAB results can be found on our Local HAB Advisories page which is updated weekly based on analysis of water samples at each location.

HAB Spotter

The RSC provides Citizen Science workshops to train individuals on how to recognize and report a potential harmful algal bloom.  Training includes proper HAB identification, reporting, and feedback from our scientists.  These observations provide additional data to scientists at the RSC to track and monitor harmful algal blooms in this region. To learn more or register to participate visit our HAB Spotter page.

Mobile HAB Lab

The RSC has been dedicated to observing, analyzing, and educating people about harmful algal blooms since 2014. We can now bring that education to you with our new Mobile HAB Lab! The Mobile HAB Lab is a traveling exhibit that we can bring to our partner schools, agencies, and veterinarian offices to help spread the word about the dangerous toxins produced by these bacteria. To learn more visit our Mobile HAB Lab page.

HABs and Veterinarians

The RSC will be working with local veterinarians to study the frequency of HAB-related illnesses in animals in this region and to provide the necessary training on how to readily identify the history and clinical signs in animals experiencing cyanotoxin poisoning due to HAB exposure. To learn more visit our HABs and Veterinarians page.

What are algal blooms?

Algae are tiny organisms that are found in water, Most types of algae are beneficial; they produce oxygen and food for animals that live in water. However, when conditions are favorable, algae can produce algal blooms. Algal blooms occur when algae grows in large, dense populations, and the favorable conditions under which they bloom include increase in water temperature and available nutrients. Large blooms, even non-toxic ones, can affect ecosystem health. Some blooms create dead zones as massive amounts of algae die and bacteria decompose the organic matter. As they decay, they deplete the oxygen in the water, and fish and other organisms can’t survive.

Cladophora and other forms of algae can produce thick mats that are not aesthetically pleasing and are considered a nuisance to local communities. The “muck” zones can harbor bacteria that can lead to beach closures. However, they do not produce algal toxins. In summer months when blooms die, cladphora mats float to the surface, and wind and wave action causes them to wash up on the shorelines where they decay.

What are harmful algal blooms?

Harmful algal blooms, or HABs, are caused by blue-green algae that produce toxins. Although the name implies algae, they are technically a type of bacteria called cyanobacteria. These microscopic organisms grow quickly, or bloom, when the water is warm, stagnant, and full of nutrients. Blooms usually occur during the summer and fall but occur at anytime during the year. When they produce toxins, these blooms can become dangerous. Even after visible blooms subside, the toxins may still be present in the water.

HABs have been observed worldwide, including Lake Erie and other Pennsylvania waters, and can occur almost anywhere: lakes, ponds, storm water retention basins, rivers, streams, or reservoirs. These blooms are generally characterized by surface scums that resemble spilled paint or pea soup. They are often green or blue-green, but may be brown, black, white, purple, or red. Swallowing or contact with affected water or scum can cause serious illness, especially to dogs and other domesticated animals.

HAB blooming at Vista 3 in summer of 2016. Photo credit: Regional Science Consortium

HAB at Marina Gas Dock on Presque Isle in 2016. Photo credit: Regional Science Consortium

How will I know if there is a HAB?

Look for posted HAB advisory signs or ask a park manager about any recent HABs because colorless toxins can remain in the water after visible blooms fade.

Confirmation of HABs can only be made under a microscope, with a field test kit, or with a laboratory test kit. HABs generally occur from late summer into early fall when the water temperatures are warmest and an abundance of sunlight and nutrients are available.

HAB sign indicating that toxin levels are too high for human and dog contact.

HAB sign indicating toxin levels are unsafe for dogs.

How dangerous are HABs?

Humans, pets, livestock, and wildlife that come into contact with or ingest HAB toxins can experience sickness, paralysis, or even death.

Know the signs of HAB poisoning:

Humans:

  • rashes, blisters hives
  • eye and nose irritations
  • diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain
  • numbness of lips, tingling in fingers and toes, dizziness, and headache

Pets, livestock, wildlife:

  • staggering, difficulty breathing, convulsions, salivation, weakness, and vomiting

What should I do if I see a HAB?

  • Stay out of water with floating film or scum
  • Don’t let children or pets play in shoreline scum
  • After swimming or wading in water, even with no visible HABs, rinse off with fresh water as soon as possible
  • NEVER swallow untreated surface water.
    • it may contain algal toxins or other bacteria, parasites, or viruses that could cause illness if consumed
  • Do not let pets lick or eat HAB material from their fur
  • Don’t drink or cook with suspect water
    • treatments like boiling, chlorine bleach or water filtration units offer no protection from HAB toxins!
  • See a doctor if you are your children might be ill from HAB toxins.
  • Contact your veterinarian for sick pets

What about fishing and other activities?

Consume minimal amounts of fish fillets from water bodies with recent HAB events. Research indicates that toxin levels are highest in internal organs but can be found in fillets. At a minimum, remove the skin and wash fillets thoroughly before cooking; being sure not to use HAB affected water.

Other activities near the water such as camping, biking, picnicking, and hiking are safe. If you are picnicking, and have had contact with suspected water or shoreline debris, be sure to wash your hands before handling food.

If in doubt, STAY OUT!

Have fun on and in the water, but know that harmful algal blooms (HABs) are a global problem in lakes, rivers, and other water bodies. Knowing how to identify HABs and being alert can keep you, your family, and your pets safe!

Where can I report a bloom or find more information?

Report a bloom to:

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP) at (814) 332-6839

For more information, visit PA Sea Grant and Erie County Department of Health