Harmful algal blooms detected in multiple Montana lakes

Harmful algal blooms detected in multiple Montana lakes | Helena News | montanarightnow.com  Montana Right Now

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Sep 30, 2024 - 13:30
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Harmful algal blooms detected in multiple Montana lakes

Harmful algal blooms detected in multiple Montana lakes

The Montana Department of Environmental Quality Warns of Harmful Algal Blooms

Introduction

The Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is issuing a warning regarding harmful algal blooms (HABs) in various lakes across the state. These blooms, caused by cyanobacteria, can have severe health implications for pets, particularly dogs. It is crucial for waterfowl hunters and residents to exercise caution and be aware of the potential risks associated with HABs.

Identifying Harmful Algal Blooms

  • HABs can be visually identified by their resemblance to pea soup, spilled paint, grass clippings, or discolored water.
  • These blooms are caused by cyanobacteria, which can lead to illness and even death in animals.

Protecting Pets

If your pet comes into contact with water suspected to have a HAB, it is essential to rinse them off immediately with clean water. Additionally, it is crucial to prevent them from licking their fur, as this can lead to ingestion of harmful toxins.

Confirmed HABs in Montana

Recent reports have confirmed the presence of HABs in several locations:

  1. Canyon Ferry in the Confederate Campground on September 24
  2. Lake Helena on September 26

Lewis and Clark Public Health has also reported a new algal bloom at Lake Helena Wildlife Management Area. However, this latest bloom has tested negative for toxins. The bloom at the Causeway Fishing Access at Lake Helena remains active, as confirmed by Lewis and Clark Public Health on Friday.

Precautions for Residents

Residents are strongly advised to avoid areas affected by HABs and ensure the safety of their children and pets by keeping them away from these areas.

Reporting Suspected HABs

Individuals can contribute to the protection of their community by reporting suspected HABs online. The DEQ website provides a map indicating locations where blooms have already been reported, enabling proactive measures to keep families safe.

Contact a veterinarian immediately if pets show signs of illness after coming into contact with affected waters, as advised by the DEQ.

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SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

  1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

    • Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination.
    • Indicator: Presence of harmful algal blooms (HABs) in lakes and their impact on pets’ health.

  2. SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation

    • Target 6.3: By 2030, improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping, and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials.
    • Indicator: Reports of HABs in lakes and their potential risks to human and animal health.

  3. SDG 14: Life Below Water

    • Target 14.1: By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, particularly from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution.
    • Indicator: Presence of HABs caused by cyanobacteria in lakes, which can indicate nutrient pollution and potential harm to aquatic life.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

SDGs Targets Indicators
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being Target 3.9: By 2030, substantially reduce the number of deaths and illnesses from hazardous chemicals and air, water, and soil pollution and contamination. Presence of harmful algal blooms (HABs) in lakes and their impact on pets’ health.
SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation Target 6.3: By 2030, improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping, and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials. Reports of HABs in lakes and their potential risks to human and animal health.
SDG 14: Life Below Water Target 14.1: By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, particularly from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution. Presence of HABs caused by cyanobacteria in lakes, which can indicate nutrient pollution and potential harm to aquatic life.

Source: montanarightnow.com