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Cyanobacterial blooms in Alberta recreational waters

Description

Cyanobacteria (also referred to as blue-green algae) are common photosynthetic bacteria that live in surface waters. Under favorable conditions, such as warm water and high nutrient content, these... More ≫

Description

Cyanobacteria (also referred to as blue-green algae) are common photosynthetic bacteria that live in surface waters. Under favorable conditions, such as warm water and high nutrient content, these bacteria can form nuisance “blooms”. The presence of blooms in recreational water causes unpleasant aesthetics and exposure to some toxin-producing blooms may pose potential health risks. Contact with blooms can cause skin rashes and irritation, itchy eyes, and ear infections. Inhaling water may cause allergic-like reactions, runny noses or sore throats. Ingestion of toxins can cause a range of symptoms (e.g., hepatotoxic or neurotoxic effects, and even death). There has been increased public awareness as a result of research over the past 20 years, recent monitoring efforts, and increased public education on the topic. In 2009, Alberta Health and Alberta Health Services began seasonal monitoring for cyanobacterial blooms at high use recreational beaches. In 2019, beach operators took over...

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Respect our lakes : cyanobacteria (blue-green algae)

Description

This brochure provides information on blue-green algal blooms, how they affect the water quality of a lake, and what lake users should do to protect the health of themselves, their families, and... More ≫

Description

This brochure provides information on blue-green algal blooms, how they affect the water quality of a lake, and what lake users should do to protect the health of themselves, their families, and their pets if a bloom is present in their lake.

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Respect our lakes : cyanobacterial (blue-green algae) blooms

Description

Cyanobacteria, often known as blue-green algae, are well adapted to growth in alkaline, nutrient-rich water bodies. During calm conditions, they can congregate near the water’s surface. These... More ≫

Description

Cyanobacteria, often known as blue-green algae, are well adapted to growth in alkaline, nutrient-rich water bodies. During calm conditions, they can congregate near the water’s surface. These “blooms” are unsightly and produce objectionable odors, and can also induce skin irritation, itchiness and severe rashes upon contact. This pamphlet provides more information on the risks posed by cyanobacteria and steps to take to protect against possible harmful effects.

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Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) in surface water sources for agricultural usage

Description

This fact sheet provides information on the diagnosis and treatment of cyanobacteria in sources of surface water used for agricultural purposes. Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, are natural... More ≫

Description

This fact sheet provides information on the diagnosis and treatment of cyanobacteria in sources of surface water used for agricultural purposes. Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, are natural inhabitants of surface waters and are widely present in dugouts and reservoirs. However, they can become a problem when conditions promote rapid growth and eventual death and decomposition.

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Alberta Environment cyanotoxin program status report

Description

Alberta’s nutrient-rich lakes and reservoirs often experience blooms of cyanobacteria (a.k.a. blue-green algae) during summer and early fall. Common species of cyanobacteria can produce potent... More ≫

Description

Alberta’s nutrient-rich lakes and reservoirs often experience blooms of cyanobacteria (a.k.a. blue-green algae) during summer and early fall. Common species of cyanobacteria can produce potent liver and/or nerve toxins. Cyanotoxin monitoring was incorporated into Alberta’s Integrated Lake and Reservoir Monitoring Program in 2005 with the goal of determining the prevalence of MCYST in Alberta. In addition, we investigate the occurrence of multiple MCYST analogues, a potent neurotoxin anatoxin-a (ATX-a), and a potentially toxic amino acid, β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) recently reported to be produced by cyanobacteria.

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Blue-green algal (cyanobacterial) blooms

Description

Alberta's nutrient-rich lakes, ponds and reservoirs can support blooms of blue-green algae, scientifically known as cyanobacteria, some of which can produce toxins hazardous to people, pets,... More ≫

Description

Alberta's nutrient-rich lakes, ponds and reservoirs can support blooms of blue-green algae, scientifically known as cyanobacteria, some of which can produce toxins hazardous to people, pets, livestock and wildlife.

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Cyanobacterial ("blue-green algae") blooms

Description

When cyanobacteria grow profusely and congregate, they make lake water look like pea soup. This phenomenon is called a bloom. Alberta has more than 100 species of cyanobacteria, ranging from tiny... More ≫

Description

When cyanobacteria grow profusely and congregate, they make lake water look like pea soup. This phenomenon is called a bloom. Alberta has more than 100 species of cyanobacteria, ranging from tiny cells invisible to the naked eye to large species that look like fine grass clippings, small shapeless clumps, or spheres several millimeters in diameter.

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Foam on surface waters

Description

Explains how foam forms on lakes, rivers, and streams.

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