Project Summary
In recent years, Minnesota has faced an increasing number of harmful algal blooms in lakes across the state. These blooms — which can be dangerous for humans, pets and wildlife — are difficult to predict and can be challenging for families, anglers and resort owners.
Using MCAP’s localized future climate data for Minnesota, we are modeling how the timing and intensity of blooms across 75 of Minnesota's largest lakes might change in response to a changing climate. Many people associate algal blooms with nutrient runoff, but temperatures matter, too. One of the most common freshwater species of harmful algae thrives in warm waters: the warmer the lakes, the faster they grow. Warming lake temperatures alone could make blooms more intense and frequent. Knowing that, we can use projected lake temperatures to map when and where future blooms are most likely to appear.
This project can help Minnesotans optimize bloom monitoring, nutrient mitigation and shoreline restoration efforts — improving human health by reducing risk and exposure to toxic blooms. Results will be incorporated into water resource-focused CAST workshops.
Links and Resources:
Algal Bloom Action Team from the North Central Region Water Network
Blue-green algae and harmful algal blooms from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency