Author: Amanda Barber

Have you seen strange looking algae or “pond scum” floating on your pond or lake? It’s not uncommon for these blooms to appear, especially during the hottest parts of summer. While most algae are harmless to humans, some can be problematic for the surrounding ecosystems, while others can produce toxins. Blooms that can be harmful to people and animals are commonly referred to as harmful algal blooms (HABs).