Could The Toxic Algae Return to Lake Erie?

Almost half a million people went all weekend without running water in Toledo, Ohio. The city and surrounding area was under a strict ban from government officials not to drink or bathe in the water after high levels of toxic algae were identified in the main water lines. Officials warned that drinking the toxic water could lead to vomiting, diarrhea and even liver damage but no illnesses have been reported yet.

Monday morning, Mayor Michael Collins told residents they are free to resume using tap water, claiming the levels of algae were reduced back down to safe levels. But even after watching Collins drink a glass of the water on camera, many residents are still afraid of drinking from the tap.

According to several experts, this could just be the beginning. Algae season is usually at it’s peak in late August or early September. Aquatic ecologist Don Scavia attributed the high algae content to lots of sun, rain and wind in recent days. He also warns that more emergency shutoffs could soon be on the way, saying, We may be looking at the beginning of the season, as it continues to grow.”

Several conservation groups are working to protect the Great Lakes from a similar breakout, especially in areas like Green Bay and Chicago.

Federal legislation is also in the works to take pro-active steps and conserve a healthy water supply. Michigan Senator Debbie Stabenow is working on a farm bill that would target phosphorus loads and runoff into Lake Erie. The Regional Conservation Partnership Program is also dumping 1.2 billion dollars into the clean water programs over the next five years.