Algal blooms occur when tiny, naturally occurring plants grow rapidly in an area of water and are visible without a microscope. Not all algal blooms are toxic, but some are. Algal blooms capable of producing toxins dangerous to humans or animals are considered Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs).
MN’s Pollution Control Agency has simple advice for algae blooms: “When in doubt, STAY OUT!”
Here is some great information:
- Michigan produced a helpful picture guide to the different algae.
- Michigan Sea Grant program held a webinar about HABs in March and the recording is now available.
- Minnesota’s Pollution Control Agency has a webpage on Blue-green algae and harmful algal blooms