Why do algae blooms form?
Algae are small, mainly aquatic, plants. Like all plants, algae require nutrients and sunlight for growth and photosynthesis. The main nutrients supporting algae growth are phosphorus and nitrogen. These two nutrients come from a variety of sources including lawn and agricultural fertilizers, air pollution, pet waste, leaky septic tanks and others. When an excess of these nutrients are dissolved in the water, algae grow and reproduce rapidly. This is called an algae bloom. Algae blooms can cause the lake to look green or very dark. Some algae grow attached to the bottom of the lake or stream, and when they break away, may end up on shore. To help prevent algae blooms, you can help keep phosphorus and nitrogen out of the water, by being an H2O Hero. Are the fish from Lake Ontario safe to eat? Some fish from Lake Ontario and its connecting streams, rivers, ponds, and bays contain dangerous chemicals in amounts considered too high by the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH). Peopl
