Harbor Isle Lake Archive • St. Pete, FL
What is blue-green algae?
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Blue-green algae isn't algae at all. It's typically referred to as algae because they’re free-floating and grow in colonies, but in reality, blue-green algae are a form of bacteria. Cyanobacteria, specifically, which is microscopic but can be seen when they’re in a colony, or bloom. [1] In some cases, cyanobacteria can produce toxins. In Harbor Isle Lake's case, this type of cyanobacteria produces the Microcystin toxin, which is a liver toxin. More details on blooms can be found on Harbor Isle Lake Journal's Toxic Lake FAQ page.
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[1] Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams. (2021) How to identify blue-green algae and what to do about it. Lilly Center for Lakes and Streams Grace College. Accessed 2022 Jan 10 https://lakes.grace.edu/identify-blue-green-algae/
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Harbor Isle Lake - January 20, 2021 versus Harbor Isle Lake - January 20, 2023
Toxic Microcystis Aeruginosa (cyanobacteria) surface scum and shoreline buildups
Photo credits: Harbor Isle Lake Journal, used with permission
How long as this been going on?
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Documented and longstanding blooms of BGA were first seen in July 2018. To see a timeline of photos of the state of the lake since 2018, please review the photos found on Harbor Isle Lake Journal. They're viewable, by clicking the link here.
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How can you post these documents?
These are public records. [1]
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[1] The Florida Legislature. (2021) CHAPTER 119 PUBLIC RECORDS 119.011 Definitions. Official Internet Site of the Florida Legislature. Accessed 2021 Dec 13
http://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0100-0199/0119/0119.html
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How I can help out regarding this situation?
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Thank you for your interest, please visit Harbor Isle Lake Journal's Help Page
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Has there been any public comment on this situation?
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Check out Harbor Isle Lake Journal's Public Info and Press Page
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What have been the City's actions thus far?
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Again check out Harbor Isle Lake Journal's Lake History and Timeline Page
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