Why does algae grow

Improved monitoring and increased research into HABs is also much needed. There is no nationwide system for collecting data on and responding to HABs, and the type of information available on HABs in individual states varies greatly. Improved methods of communication to the public, across organizations, and among states could speed up emergency response to HABs, reducing harm to the environment, wildlife, and people.

Congress also provides funding to the U. The network has also made satellite images of HABs more accessible to the public. While the federal government is investing in research and prevention programs, a concerted national effort to identify, respond to, and prevent HAB outbreaks is lacking—and that endangers public health.

States are currently on the front line of the HAB crisis and need to do more to protect their residents from exposure to toxic blooms. Thankfully, some states have improved monitoring and reporting efforts. For instance, in there were 41 confirmed reports of HABs in Montana waters. Unfortunately, too many states fail to even monitor for HABs and alert the public of their risks, let alone take significant steps to reduce outbreaks in the first place.

Knowing where HABs are occurring—and whether the government is responding—is a critical first step to keeping our waterways, families, and ecosystems safe.

Phytoplankton blooms are growing faster and thicker than ever seen before—with potential consequences for climate, wildlife, and the fishing industry. Giant farms—whether growing crops or animals—often rely heavily on chemicals and produce waste that pollutes the water and air. Our rivers, reservoirs, lakes, and seas are drowning in chemicals, waste, plastic, and other pollutants.

Agriculture runoff is choking Lake Erie. Are lawmakers finally ready to tell farmers to knock it off? We will keep you informed with the latest alerts and progress reports. A boat in the Copco Reservoir in Northern California cuts through toxic blue-green algae infesting the region.

Preventing Freshwater Harmful Algal Blooms You may have read about algae taking over giant swaths of coastlines, closing beaches and turning the sea a foamy brownish red in a phenomenon known as a red tide. A duck wades through an algae bloom in Florida.

Surface water runoff pipes lead to an algae-filled lake in Wisconsin. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources via Flickr. The Lindon Marina in Lindon, Utah, after a harmful algal bloom overwhelmed the lake. A dog swimming in blooming algae covering a pond in Swepsonville, North Carolina. Dogs are vulnerable to illness or even death after contact with HAB toxins. A sample of water pulled from Lake Erie near Toledo, Ohio, after a toxic algal bloom overwhelmed the lake.

Haraz N. Left: Dead fish washed ashore during a golden algae toxic bloom in Texas. Anderson via Flickr. A water quality researcher takes samples of a toxic blue-green algae bloom in the Copco Reservoir in California. Industrial Agriculture Lake Bloomers. Thanks for signing up. You'll receive your first NRDC action alert and update email soon.

Before you waste valuable time and money attempting to tackle algae on your own, talk with the experts at Aquatic Environment Consultants. We deliver results quickly with as little investment as possible. For more than 30 years , we have worked with pond and lake owners to ensure the health and vitality of your water quickly and with as little investment as possible.

We can help you figure out the source of your algae growth and devise a smart treatment and prevention plan to keep your pond or lake thriving for years to come. Updated March 12th, If your lake has become murky blue or green instead of clear and shimmery, like it used to be, you might have an algae problem. What Causes Algae in Lakes and Ponds?

Is Algae Dangerous? However, some types of algae or algae-related conditions can pose a serious threat to you and all aquatic wildlife living in or near your body of water, such as: It creates dead zones: As algae blooms, it can deplete the water of its natural oxygen.

It is not safe to drink: Some lakes supply drinking water for millions of people. When high levels of toxic algae taint that water, it becomes much more expensive and challenging to treat the water before it is safe to use or consume.

Even water deemed safe to consume may have an off-putting smell or aftertaste. Common Causes of Algae in Lakes and Ponds Algae growth can occur naturally through light exposure, water movement and warm pond temperatures, or as a result of human-made pollution. Often, algae growth is a side effect of several of these factors culminating at once: 1. Light Exposure and Water Movement Along with food, algae require the right amount of light to thrive.

Factors That Affect the Growth of Algae Many times, the growth of algae is not triggered by a single factor, but rather, variations of combined environmental factors. Light: Algae needs light energy to grow. The more sunlight that penetrates the area, the higher the chance for algae to sustain life. Nutrients: Nutrients, like nitrogen and phosphorus, fuel algae growth.

Temperature: Warmer water leads to increased algae growth. Turbidity water clarity : Particles suspended in water affect how light travels. The clearer the water, the more sunlight will penetrate. Stable Conditions: Most algae prefer stable water conditions with minimal turbulence.

Simply put; this stops light penetration through the tank sidewalls. Without sunlight, algae can't grow! Paint your tank black. Bleach kills microorganisms such as algae. The chemical behind this effective form of removing algae is known as hypochlorous acid. Once the bleach is added to the water, this chemical goes to work killing microbes and removes algae.

Or, add 4 parts of chlorine to every 1,, parts water.