Harbor Isle Lake Archive • St. Pete, FL
What is blue-green algae?
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.
[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/
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?
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.
How can you post these documents?
These are public records. [1]
[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
How I can help out regarding this situation?
Thank you for your interest, please visit Harbor Isle Lake Journal's Help Page
Has there been any public comment on this situation?
Check out Harbor Isle Lake Journal's Public Info and Press Page
What have been the City's actions thus far?
Again check out Harbor Isle Lake Journal's Lake History and Timeline Page