If you type the words “toxic algae bloom” into a Google News search bar, you’ll find stories from the last few months about people all around the U.S. whose summer plans have been halted by toxic algae. Lakes and reservoirs in several states have been eerily quiet as residents and vacationers have been warned not to expose themselves or their pets to these contaminated water bodies.
California’s toxic algae problem is now worse than ever, and officials have placed signs at 30 freshwater lakes and reservoirs warning swimmers and boaters to stay out of the water. Because of the severe droughts the state has experienced over the last few years, water levels have dropped significantly, allowing sunlight to easily penetrate the water and accelerate the growth of toxic algae.
In Minnesota, America’s “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” officials have struggled to identify the cause of toxic algae blooms in the state’s southern lakes. Earlier this month, a homeowner on Beaver Lake in Steele County reported problems that he believed were caused by sewage from a septic tank. After testing, local environmental officials announced that toxic algae was the culprit, which prompted the closure of a popular county park that runs alongside of the lake.
In July, Utah Lake in northern Utah saw the largest algal bloom in its history, causing significant grief for not only swimmers and boaters, but more importantly, environmental officials who question the effect that the bloom will have on the lake’s downstream systems. Utah Poison Control has received numerous calls reporting symptoms of illnesses that are associated with exposure to contaminated water, and the state’s Department of Agriculture and Food has advised against eating produce that has been watered with secondary water sourced from Utah Lake and its Jordan River outlet.
While recent toxic algae blooms have put a damper on summer recreation, the greater problem lies within the risks they pose to the health of humans and animals. NClear™ nanocrystals were engineered to provide a solution to this problem. By utilizing our patented nanocrystals, municipal and industrial wastewater facilities can better control phosphorus discharges, and help to prevent algal blooms. Contact us today to learn more about our solution.