Blue-Green
Algae
Results
Population densities of cyanobacteria in the net samples collected as part
of the monitoring program on Burlington Bay did not exceed the levels requiring
the implementation of the Vigilance level on any date prior to September.
As a result, toxin testing did not occur on a routine basis in the bay,
however microcystin levels were checked on September 10 and found to be
below levels of concern (Figure 15).
A training workshop for public health officials was held on September
19, 2002 and attended by 13 individuals from Vermont and New York.
The workshop was presented by Mary Watzin and Angela Shambaugh. Participants
were provided with information to help them identify potential toxin-producing
cyanobacteria and find local contract laboratories for both algae and toxin
analysis. They were also given an explanation of the experimental
monitoring system, and contact information when seeking assistance in coping
with a potentially toxic bloom. Microscopes and samples of potentially
toxic and non-toxic cyanobacteria were available for participants to examine
the algae first hand. A copy of the booklet provided to participants
is included as part of this report package.
Analysis of the samples collected in 2002 as part of the cyanobacteria
monitoring project is ongoing. Additional funding will be provided
in 2003 by the Basin Program to continue refining the prototype monitoring
system and to improve communication among public entities dealing with
this issue. Collaborating with colleagues on Lake Erie and Lake Ontario,
we have also received a new grant from NOAA to investigate the intensive
blooms that can occur in shallow water sections of the lake.
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