What You Can Do

Harmful algal blooms are a major environmental problem across the United States. Red tides in marine waters and some cyanobacteria blooms in freshwaters are examples of HABs that can impact human health, aquatic ecosystems, and the economy. 

Harmful algal blooms can produce dangerous toxins that can sicken or kill people and animals (livestock or pets), create low-oxygen or dead zones in the water, threaten people's access to water, raise water treatment costs and hurt industries that depend on clean water.

We can all take action to reduce some of the factors that allow HABs to grow and survive, learn to identify and report HABs and their associated illnesses to the appropriate agencies, and help teach others about HABs.

Help prevent HABs by reducing nutrient loading into waterbodies 

Nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus help HABs grow. Taking simple actions in your home and yard can reduce nutrient loadings into waterbodies and can make a big difference. 

Volunteer to monitor waterbodies for algal blooms

You can help report suspected freshwater HABs using the Environmental Protection Agency's bloomWatch application. You can use a web-based version of the app from any handheld device or computer, or download the bloomWatch app onto your smartphone or tablet to report when and where you observe a potential cyanobacteria bloom.

The following organizations are examples of other volunteer opportunities to help monitor for HABs:

Report suspected HABs to your state agency 

State departments of health or environment can test waterbodies to determine if an algal bloom is toxic. Many also have apps you can use to report a local suspected bloom.

Graphic of four algae blooms entitled: "Clean Water or Green Water?". The graphic text says, "Can you tell if these algae blooms contain bacteria that's harmful to humans and animals? Sight alone is not enough to determine whether an algae bloom is toxic or nontoxic. If you see algae blooms in your area, notify your local health department for testing. And remember: when in doubt, stay out!"

Educate others about HABs and what causes them

Learn about HABs and share your knowledge and example photos and videos provided by the EPA with others to help them identify HABs, understand associated risks, minimize their exposure, and help with reporting.

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Videos

Infographics

Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) in Water Bodies

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Last updated on September 19, 2024