Many organisms live in the Great Lakes, including algae. When certain conditions are present, such as high nutrient or light levels, these organisms can reproduce rapidly. Dense populations of algae are called a bloom. Some blooms are harmless, but when the blooming organisms contain toxins, other harmful chemicals, or pathogens, it is known as a harmful algal bloom (HAB). HABs can cause death of fish and fowl of nearby shorelines, and produce harmful conditions to aquatic life, humans, and pets.
Always report suspicious-looking algae by calling the Environment Assistance Center at 1-800-662-9278 or sending an e-mail to AlgaeBloom@Michigan.gov.
For more information, visit this website:
Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy – Harmful Algal Blooms
