Harmful Algae Blooms (HABS)
THE PROBLEM
Unlike the other ‘Threats to Healthy Water Quality’ Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) are not a pollutant directly or indirectly discharged into the environment by humans. HABs are caused by naturally occurring algae. Although the algae associated with HABs and the blooms themselves can be naturally occurring, humans worsen the problem by contributing to nutrient pollution which feeds this algae.
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You have likely experienced the effect of HABs yourself during the 2021 red tide event following the release of wastewater from the Piney Point gypsum stacks. HABs can cause public health problems including respiratory irritation, shortness of breath, asthma attacks and throat, eye, and skin irritation. HABs also cause environmental issues such as reduced oxygen levels in the water and fish kills. Lastly the economic losses caused by HAB can be staggering and not just for anglers and tourist related business but it has been shown that HABs also reduce property values (Bechard 2020).
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Learn more about HABs from Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and other resources.
TAKE ACTION - WHAT YOU CAN DO
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Be Floridian! Follow all fertilizer ordinances and consider transitioning to a native landscape.
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Support the strengthening of local fertilizer regulations.
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Consider converting from septic to sewer or retrofitting your septic systems with nitrogen treatment technologies.
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Document algae blooms and fish-kills and share the information with the Fish and Wildlife Commission and Tampa Bay Waterkeeper.
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Catch and Release - Always follow the stated Florida fish closures and guidance.