Cyanobacteria or blue-green algae are some of the smallest creatures on Earth but can cause big problems for public water systems. Not only does algae clog filters, cause taste and odor complaints and is a general mess, blue-green algae or cyanobacteria have the unique ability to produce toxins. These toxins are harmful to humans and animal health. See the links below for more information regarding these toxins and drinking water treatment available to remove these unregulated contaminants.
Best Management Practices for Harmful Algae Blooms
The BMP and the adjoining exhibits and algae maps listed below were created by a subcommittee of the Drinking Water Advisory Committee, consisting of several public water systems, OHA's Drinking Water Services, OHA's Toxicology and other water professionals.
For information regarding harmful algae blooms & recreational advisories, visit http://healthoregon.org/hab/.