Contributed by Curtis Collins
Curtis Collins is a Water Quality Technician for the City and County of Broomfield and has a background in Fisheries Biology. His favorite activity is fishing for Cutthroat trout in high alpine lakes across Colorado.

Summer is here! As the weather heats up, so do water temperatures in our local ponds. Warm water temperatures can cause multiple issues for ponds, including algal blooms. Algal blooms occur in water when warm temperatures, abundant nutrients, and prolonged periods of light are present.

Negative effects of algal blooms:

●       Dense algal mats that can hinder recreational activities such as fishing.

●       Reduce dissolved oxygen levels in the pond which can lead to a fish kill.

●       A strong “decaying” smell when the algae dies.

Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) are of most concern because they are algae or cyanobacteria blooms that produce toxins that are harmful to both humans and animals.

Potential health effects to humans or animals:

●       Skin and eye irritation

●       Nausea

●       Vomiting

●       Diarrhea

●       Liver damage

●       In some cases for animals, even death

It is important that microcystin toxin levels are evaluated when algal blooms occur and appropriate actions are taken if toxin numbers exceed safe levels for human and animal health. Waterbody closures and posting of signs to warn the public help deter direct contact with the impacted water.

How residents can help:

●       Limit the amount of fertilizer used on lawns to reduce nutrient levels in runoff.

●       Prevent leaves, grass, and other yard debris from entering our storm drainage system.