Mild to moderately harmful algae blooms predicted in Lake Erie
Ohio federal researchers predict that this year's algae blooms in Lake Erie will be mild to moderately harmful.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasts the bloom to measure around three on the Harmful Algal Bloom Severity Index on a scale of one to 10, 10 being the most severe.
A three means possible impacts on drinking water, public health, and tourism.
The blooms are made up of cyanobacteria, which is also called blue-green algae. It can produce a toxin that's dangerous for people and animals.
Officials with the Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research at the University of Windsor said no matter the size of the bloom, we can't let our guard down, as the risk is always present.
'Even though we're talking about Lake Erie right now, this is the same advice that applies to Lake St. Clair, where we're more likely to see blooms along the Ontario shoreline,' said Mike McKay, Glier director with UWindsor.
'Avoid green water. It may not be toxic, but it's not worth taking the chance.'
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