Callahan, M. (2022, August 2). Clear Lake residents near massive blue-green algae blooms offered access to treated drinking water. The Press Democrat. Retrieved August 11, 2022, from https://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/news/clear-lake-residents-near-massive-blue-green-algae-blooms-offered-access-to/

In this article the writer expresses the concern for Residents that live near Clear Lake, an algae bloom infested water. The article shows that the algae blooms are cyanobacteria, which means the water may be unsafe to drink. “Depending on the type, cyanotoxins can cause everything from skin irritation to stomach upset to respiratory or neurological symptoms.” The water is also toxic to the aquatic life in the lake. While this has been a problem in Clear Lake for many years we are now learning more about the dangers, causes and environmental impact. The article shared that the lake itself is a problem but because residents get their drinking water from this water the communication about the hazard is also really important and they have had concerns about residents being properly informed. Therefore some residents could still be drinking the water which is unsafe. 

 

This article makes me think about the impact the blue-green algae blooms have not only on the water they are growing in but also the community. Clear Lake is not only a lake but also a water source for the community and many people are now having to buy bottled water or use refilling stations with filtered water to ensure their water is safe to drink and use. The main cause of the water blooms is the runoff that includes fertilizers. This and the warmer climate, with less rain are creating, unfortunately, the perfect environment for algae blooms. The article didn’t share what they are doing to improve the situation. I think we should focus on the root of the problem, fertilizers and global warming.