![]() If possible, please also include the approximate size of the bloom and a photo of the site. Please include your name, phone number, the location of the algae bloom, and the date and time you observed it. To report suspected large algae blooms or HABs, please contact Tess Danielson of DOEE’s Water Quality Division at (202) 724-5348 or. Reporting Suspected Algae Blooms or Harmful Algal Blooms People and pets should avoid direct skin contact, inhalation, or ingestion of water affected by HABs. Several species of cyanobacteria have the capacity to produce toxic chemicals that can harm human health and lead to illness or death for wildlife or pets. Take caution to limit any exposure to a suspected HAB. DOEE analyzes continuous, real-time water quality measurements of Chlorophyll from the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers to monitor for algae and cyanobacteria blooms.īlooms that have a negative impact on the environment are called Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs). With low oxygen levels, fish cannot survive and the result may be a fish kill event.ĭOEE staff conducts regular surveillance and sampling to track the water conditions of the District’s rivers and streams. Large algae blooms can also deplete oxygen levels in the water as they die off. Without sunlight, the submerged plants will not survive and will no longer provide food or habitat for fish. An overabundance of algae or cyanobacteria can harm aquatic ecosystems by preventing light from reaching other plants below the surface of the water. While many forms of algae do not cause direct harm, some forms of algae and cyanobacteria can present health risks to wildlife, pets, or humans. ![]() Fertilizers, animal waste, sewage discharges, and stormwater runoff increase the availability of nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus and enhance conditions for algal growth. Some conditions that promote algal growth include slow-moving water, warm temperatures, and the availability of nutrients. They can sometimes be observed as floating mats on the water surface or simply as a change in water color.Īlthough algae blooms are natural events, they can be accelerated by manmade factors. Algae blooms occur when large amounts of algal cells are present in a body of water. Algae are major sources of food for aquatic life and create oxygen that fish use. Algae and cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, are found naturally in aquatic environments and are an essential part of the ecosystem.
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