Nearshore Monitoring in Wisconsin’s Lake Superior Coast for Nutrient Conditions Leading to Harmful Algal Blooms

Monday, Oct. 3rd, 4pm

202 Swenson Science Bldg (in-person only)

Ellen Cooney
WI Dept. of Natural Resources

Abstract

While often thought of as pristine, Lake Superior has experienced significant cyanobacterial blooms in recent years that threaten the beneficial uses of the nearshore area. A potential toxin-producing species, Dolichospermum lemmermannii (identified by Gina LaLiberte, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources- Statewide Harmful Algal Bloom Coordinator & Applied Limnologist), was identified in blooms in 2012, 2016, 2017, and 2018. While toxins were not observed in blooms along the south shore, these blooms are a concern to the public due to their unprecedented nature, as well as their ability to potentially impact summer tourism, public health and impact to recreational users. We currently lack understanding of conditions leading to bloom formation and where initial bloom formation occurs. Our project objectives include 1) Obtaining baseline surface water quality parameters associated with algal bloom formation in Wisconsin’s shoreline of Lake Superior, 2) collecting water quality data before and during algal bloom events to characterize bloom supporting conditions and 3) determining the spatial and temporal distribution of algal bloom events. Collection of this information was a first step in understanding the blooms and developing management actions to minimize their occurrence and impact.