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LoveLakeWinni
08-04-2016, 02:28 PM
August 17th: 6:00-8:00 PM, Pinckney Boat House, Brewster Academy, Wolfeboro, NH

Lately, the issue of toxic cyanobacteria blooms has been in the news. Lake Erie has experienced repeated massive blooms each summer, resulting in the closure of beaches and tainted drinking water. This May, a 33 square mile algal bloom on Lake Okeechobee, Florida, made its way to the coast when water managers released water from the lake, causing economic damage to local tourism, fishing and boating businesses.

Lake Winnipesaukee has also experienced cyanobacteria blooms, and is currently listed on the State of NH’s 303(d) list of impaired waters for cyanobacteria hepatoxic microcystins.

Cyanobacteria (often referred to as blue-green algae) are a natural component of New Hampshire waterbodies, and are important organisms for the health and growth of many plants. However, certain cyanobacteria produce toxins that can affect the nervous system, liver, or endocrine system if ingested in large enough quantity. Jim Haney, UNH Center for Freshwater Biology, and his team of researchers have been conducting research for the past decade to learn what effects cyanobacteria and its toxins may have on human health through water and the food web.

Come learn about the types of cyanobacteria, current management options, and what you and your local lake association can do to help minimize blooms. Pre-registration is required. Contact LWA at 581-6632 or visit www.winnipesaukee.org/events.