Testing for Toxic Algae

By Tadd Barrow
UNL Extension Educator, Water Quality

Algae is a microscopic plant that occurs in all water. However, only certain conditions bring algae to the surface, making it toxic to animals, especially humans and dogs.

Toxic algae often are naturally occurring from high phosphorus levels. The older a lake is, the higher its phosphorus levels.

Phosphorus also can enter water through fertilizers that contain phosphorus.

To prevent human contamination through fertilizers, follow good management practices. For example, use buffer strips to prevent sediment from going into the water.

When illness occurs from toxic algae, it’s usually because of consumption. Also, mild rashes can occur if contaminated water touches the skin.

If fishing in contaminated water, fish are edible as filets. However, their internal organs most likely are contaminated, so they should not be eaten.

The Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality monitors the quality of 35 lakes on a weekly basis and every Friday the results are updated on their web site at http://www.deq.state.ne.us

To test water for toxic algae, call the UNL Water Quality Extension Program at (402) 472-7783 and you will be sent a complete monitoring kit with instructions that can be mailed back for screening.

For more information about toxic algae, go online to http://snr.unl.edu/lakes