Harmful Algal Blooms

You may notice a green, red or brown film on your favorite boating or swimming area in the summer. This coloring could mean that the water is affected by harmful algal blooms. Harmful algal blooms are an accumulation of tiny organisms known as algae and can release harmful toxins into the environment. If you see a bloom, avoid the area. Pictured here is a beach on Marion Lake in Kansas with a posted warning indicating that a potentially harmful algal bloom is present.