Know about Algal Blooms
Lawn and yard care practices
1. Prevent excess use of fertlizers
- Conduct a soil test before applying fertilizer to determine what nutrients and quantities might be needed
- consider Fertlizer alternatives
- Native plant species will survive more extreme climate conditions, and do not require fertilizers or supplemental watering
2. Prevent excess run-off
- Avoid application over impervious surfaces such as sidewalks or patios; sweep any excess fertilizer onto the grass to prevent it from washing away.
- Avoid applying to eroding soil.
- don’t apply before anticipated rainfall.
- Do not apply near wells
- Increase plant life as it helps to absorb any nutrients in the water and prevent their excessive accumulation.
use one application of 100% slow release fertilizer in the fall or spring when waters are not as warm and daylight is not as long.
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Install rain barrels throughout the community to reduce polluted runoff.
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Implement landscaping strategies, like xeriscaping, that increase groundwater filtration before water enters the pond or lake
Make a pledge:https://ori.wufoo.com/forms/pledge-to-fight-climate-change-with-your-lawn/
Beware the Bloom! Tips for protecting your family and pets from harmful algal blooms:
• Know before you go. Check for advisories before you head to the lake and avoid contact with the water when warnings are posted.
• If the water is discolored, smells bad, or has foam or scum on the surface, leave immediately.
• Do not fish, boat, or play water sports when harmful algae are present.
• Do not wash dishes or camping gear in water bodies.
• Wash hands thoroughly before preparing food.
• Immediately rinse exposed skin with clear water.
• Keep pets out of the water.
• Do not let pets drink lake or pond water.
• Examine the shoreline for evidence of dried algal blooms. Dead blooms may still contain toxins that can be fatal to your pet.
• Wear gloves and rinse animals immediately after contact with infected water.
• When in doubt, stay out!
Pet care practices
Comprising of pet waste and/or other forms of nutrient-rich waste. Dispose of these effectively without contaminating natural ecosystems.a common source of excess nutrients
Follow advisories that tell you a harmful algal bloom or its toxins were found in the water. You cannot always see harmful algal blooms.
. For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential HAB’s, please visit kdhe.ks.gov/HAB and view our interactive story and informative video. In late 2024, the KDHE HAB response program identified a new and evolving health concern at a Kansas public waterbody associated with another species and growth form of blue-green algae, Harmful Algal Mats (HAMs). HAMs are blue-green algae that grow attached to the bottom of the waterbody or other surfaces. However, these blue-green algae mats can become detached and float or wash up on shore. In addition, HAMs can be mixed with non-harmful green algae and other aquatic vegetation. HABs and HAMs can produce the same toxins, but their growth types are different, as do the advisory messages and signage issued for them. HABs are composed of high densities of usually small, microscopic blue-green algae dispersed in the water column that can change the color of water and often form a surface scum, especially during warmer months. HABs can be unpredictable, and conditions can change rapidly. On the other hand, HAMs can reside in water that looks clear and clean and may often appear as excess growth that is brown or black in color that carpets the bottom of the waterbody or other surfaces. HAMs may continue to persist and grow year-round in affected waterbodies. The health risk from HAMs is greatest when exposure occurs through ingestion and when contact or disturbance of algal mat material occurs (particularly for small children and dogs). KDHE HAB Response Program will notify public waterbody managers if HAMs are detected at the waterbody while responding to algae bloom complaints and recommend that signage be posted. If you notice HAM signage posted at the waterbody or excess algal growth that appears black or brown in color, be aware that potential health risks may be present when engaging in recreational activities. KDHE HAB Response Program recommends the following precautions be taken at HAM affected waters: Do not allow people or pets to eat algal mats or ingest lake water. Do not touch or contact algal mats. Use caution when engaging in recreational activities, especially primary contact recreation, such as swimming. Wash with clean water after skin contact with lake water. Do not transport algal mats to other waterbodies and follow KDWP’s guidance for cleaning boats and equipment. For more information on Harmful Algal Mats, please visit:www.kdhe.ks.gov/HAM ###
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