Combating the Global Toxic Algae Problem

Toxic algal blooms are an environmental issue that affects millions globally. More than just an eyesore–blooms can have adverse effects such as the “do not drink” advisory that affected over half a million people in Toledo when Lake Erie was struck.

The Bowling Green State University is taking the initiative to combat this problem by hosting a workshop, with the top experts from around the globe, to discuss solutions and approaches to harmful algal blooms. “Global Solutions to Regional Problems” will be held on its campus on April 13 and 14.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) are sponsoring the workshop, which aims to identify weak spots in current scientific knowledge on blooms, their prevention, and remediation.

Discussion of case studies will also guide the development of a workshop paper that will outline the strategy for future solutions and research.

BGSU biology faculty and algal bloom researchers Drs. George Bullerjahn and Mike McKay spearheaded the two-day event with NOAA scientist and collaborator Tim Davis. Together they have studied the phenomenon of blooms throughout the Great Lakes. The workshop’s global focus is also bolstered by its presenters from abroad: Boqiang Qin, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, China; Rainer Kurmayer, Universität Innsbruck, Austria; Hans Paerl, University of North Carolina; Steve Wilhelm, The University of Tennessee; and representatives from NOAA and the Environmental Protection Agency.

Moving things closer to home, if you have an algae problem yourself, Natural Golf Solutions’ Liquid Live Micro Organisms (LLMO) product is an existing environmentally friendly way to combat nuisance blooms. Proven in its utilization by customers since 1974, LLMO is suitable for use from large-scale applications such as golf course lakes and ponds to parks and apartment complexes. The Live Bacterial Treatment also removes odor and sludge aside from algae growth, and also saves time and money while effectively improving water quality.