Monitoring and Evaluation of Cyanobacteria in Lake Champlain (2002), LCBP Technical Report #41

Title: Monitoring and Evaluation of Cyanobacteria in Lake Champlain (2002), LCBP Technical Report #41
Author: Mary Watzin, Angela Shambaugh, Emily K. Brines
Publication Year: 2003
Number of Pages in Article: 36
Keywords: LCBP Technical Report
Journal/Publication: Lake Champlain Basin Program
Publication Type: Technical and Demonstration
Citation:

Watzin, M., A. Shambaugh, and E.Brine. (2003). Monitoring and Evaluation of Cyanobacteria in Burlington Bay, Lake Champlain (Summer 2002) (Technical Report No. 41). Grand Isle, VT: Lake Champlain Basin Program

How to Obtain: Download Now
Abstract:

This report is a follow up project on two previous studies analyzing the potential threat posed by the presence of cyanobacteria (blue-green algae or BGA) in Lake Champlain. The objectives achieved by this project, which was conducted in the summer of 2002, were: 1) the continuation of cyanobacteria monitoring in the greater Burlington area; 2) the expansion of monitoring for cyanobacteria outside the greater Burlington area; 3) the continuation of screening for the presence of toxins when potential toxin-producers were observed in plankton samples; 4) in the case of a bloom, the monitoring of environmental, algae, and toxins throughout the bloom; 5) the refinement and testing of a tiered BGA monitoring and public alert system; and 6) to hold a workshop for public health officials, water treatment and beach managers, and other interested parties that would provide them with the skills to identify BGA blooms and to use the tiered alert system.  Water plankton samples were conducted throughout the lake. The results indicated that toxin producing BGA species were still a common part of Lake Champlain plankton in 2002. Toxin concentrations in St. Albans Bay and Missisqoui Bay exceeded the World Health Organization guidelines at multiple points during the summer and fall. The highest densities of BGA were found in northern bays where nutrient concentrations were high. The prototype monitoring and alert system worked well to identify the early stages of potentially toxic blooms. The report stresses the importance of focusing efforts on monitoring BGA at shoreline locations where concentrations tend to be the highest and where a larger percentage of recreational activities occur. The report advises that replicate samples of BGA blooms are critical due to a high degree of spacial variation in toxin concentrations within blooms. The training workshop was well received and the report concludes by advising that additional training and public educational materials are needed. Note: Data are available in final report. 

Return to Search Page

Get the latest from Lake Champlain Basin Program