It is not uncommon during this time of year for lakes to experience algae blooms. These toxic blooms are caused by an abundance of nutrients in warm, slow-moving water. This can cause problems for humans and animals.
Walking along Five Island Lakes’ recessed shoreline an observer can now see algae blooms which look like a carpet of grass clippings floating in the water. The blooms can range from bright blue to green in color. The murky water is also easily identified by its foul odor. It is usually shoreline areas where the algae accumulate. The blooms can occur quickly and can last hours, days or weeks. These do not happen every year. It depends on weather, the health of the lake and the amount of nutrients such as phosphorus that run into the lake.
According to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources all algae is not the same. The DNR describes both the single-celled algae and the filamentous algae. “The single-celled algae, usually not visible, form the base of the food chain and make much of the oxygen needed for other life in a body of water.” Scientists are also studying this alga as a source of food for humans. The Algae Industry magazine reports that , “Single-cell algae research is producing foods for humans made from the algae components. These include proteins, oils and carbohydrates.”
The DNR states that the “filamentous algae sometimes called moss or grass, is more visible and most easily becomes a nuisance.” This is a problem for animals and humans who come in contact with the blue-green algae. A person accidentally ingesting it can suffer from a sore throat, diarrhea and upset stomach. Direct skin contact can cause skin and eye irritation, allergic reaction and rashes.
The Iowa DNR routinely monitors 39 Iowa state park beaches from Memorial Day to Labor Day. They test for toxins in the algae blooms and other contaminants such as e-coli. In the last week of July three beaches were issued advisories because of an algae bloom producing harmful microcystins. These warnings were in Union, Washington and Cerro Gordo counties.
The DNR also works collaboratively with the Iowa Department of Public Health to track illnesses related to algae blooms. The Harmful Algal Blooms Program monitors the health effects of people who come in contact with the blue-green algae in recreational waters.
The continued lack of rain this year is exposing lake phenomena not always seen. While large rocks and animal bones are interesting finds an algae bloom is just unsettling.
Previous question’s answer: The Aqua-5 Club was one of the many ideas to raise money for lake projects. In 1991, 200 members agreed to donate $100 each year for 5 years. Of those, 80 members continued with the donations for 3 more years. According to Dr. Coffee’s book Saving the Glacier’s Creation, “Total funding – cash and donated services- by Emmetsburg citizens over the years has totaled over two million dollars.”
Question: How many lakes are in Palo Alto and Emmet Counties (exclusive of the Iowa Great Lakes)?
Written by Diane Weiland
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