Experts forecast toxic algae will reach Lake Erie once more this year; luckily, the amount of algae predicted is less than last year, but it will still pose threats to sea life and those who rely on the lake as their water supply.
According to Fox News, The National Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration anticipates that the amount of toxic algae will be lower than the amounts over the past three years; however that amount is still above average. The algae amount for this year is expected to amount to 24,250 tons, whereas the average for the last 12 years is 15,430 tons.
The toxic algae is typically caused by the amount of fertilizer that has made its way into the lake and the amount of snow that has melted that year. Fertilizer causes the levels of cyanobacteria (toxic algae) to increase, which when decaying removes oxygen from the lake. The toxic algae kills fish and other sea life. It also can hurt humans with toxins that can deteriorate vital organs such as the liver, skin, nerves, and kidneys.
Dr. Laura Johnson, researcher for the National Center for Water Quality Research stated that the algae will be noteworthy this year due to the fact that the water quality has been declining. The algae is expected to reach Lake Erie late July or early August and will continue to be monitored by researchers, Uncover California noted.