Harmful Algal Bloom! What’s that?!?!

A harmful algal bloom, or HAB, happens when the natural algae found in our waters receives too many nutrients and grows out of control. But not all algal blooms are harmful. They only become harmful to humans when the bloom consists of cyanobacteria, commonly known as blue-green algae. This particular algae produces cyanotoxins that cause skin and eye irritation or, when inhaled or ingested, cause flue-like symptoms. HAB’s can be very dangerous for swimmers and boaters. When particularly bad, HAB’s can require areas of water or entire lakes to be closed for public safety.