As temperatures rise and stormwater runoff becomes increasingly polluted, the risk of harmful algal blooms (HABs) in New Jersey's water bodies is growing. The Watershed Institute has issued a warning to residents and visitors to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to combat this environmental threat.
Understanding Harmful Algal Blooms
HABs, caused by the excessive growth of cyanobacteria (blue-green algae), pose a significant risk to human health, pets, wildlife, and aquatic ecosystems. These blooms are fueled by rising global temperatures and polluted stormwater runoff, which carries nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen into our waterways. The combination of warm temperatures, heavy rains, and excess nutrients creates ideal conditions for these toxic algae to flourish.
Exposure to HABs can result in various health issues, including skin irritations, respiratory problems, flu-like symptoms, gastrointestinal distress, and in severe cases, organ failure or death. To ensure safety, it is crucial to heed warning signs near affected water bodies, avoid contact with discolored or foul-smelling water, and report any related health issues.
Taking Action: Reducing the Impact of HABs
Jim Waltman, Executive Director of The Watershed Institute, emphasizes the importance of collective action in mitigating the effects of HABs. While it may not be possible to control global temperatures locally, there are several steps individuals, communities, and governments can take to reduce nutrient pollution and manage stormwater runoff.
1. Manage Pollution: Limiting nutrient inputs is key to preventing excessive algae growth. This can be achieved by:
Using fertilizers responsibly.
Reducing the use of road salts.
Properly maintaining septic tanks and sewer pipes.
Disposing of pet waste appropriately.
Adopting sustainable agricultural practices.
2. Reduce Polluted Stormwater Runoff: Land development often contributes to polluted runoff. The Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System Permit (MS4), a provision of the Clean Water Act, requires towns to manage stormwater runoff. The Watershed Institute has been advocating for stricter MS4 permits and recently succeeded in requiring towns to create Watershed Improvement Plans. These plans address water pollution resulting from runoff, and the Institute encourages regional collaboration to implement these measures.
3. Install Green Infrastructure: Traditional paved surfaces contribute to increased runoff and flooding. By incorporating green infrastructure elements like rain gardens, permeable pavement, and vegetated swales, communities can create natural spaces that absorb and filter stormwater, recharge groundwater, and protect local water bodies from pollution.
4. Monitor Rivers and Streams: The Watershed Institute's StreamWatch water monitoring program regularly samples and assesses water quality, identifying potential HAB hotspots. Residents and recreational users are encouraged to report suspected blooms to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) through this link.
5. Explore Innovative Solutions: Floating wetlands are an innovative solution that The Watershed Institute is studying. These manufactured rafts, planted with vegetation like iris and willows, absorb harmful nutrients from the water, mitigating algae blooms without chemicals. The Institute has installed floating wetlands at several locations to evaluate their effectiveness.
A Call to Action
The Watershed Institute is committed to collaborating with government agencies, environmental organizations, and local communities to address the challenge of harmful algal blooms. By working together, we can protect our precious water resources and ensure a safe and enjoyable summer for everyone in New Jersey.
To learn more about Harmful Algal Blooms, please visit the NJDEP HAB website.
The Watershed Institute, founded in 1949, is dedicated to keeping Central New Jersey’s water clean, safe, and healthy through conservation, advocacy, science, and education. For more information, visit www.thewatershed.org or call (609) 737-3735.
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