The dangers that come with algal blooms
As we move deeper into 2025, the challenges surrounding algae management in recreational lakes continue to demand innovative solutions. Algae blooms are often fueled by nutrient pollution and climate change. They threaten not just water quality but also the economic and recreational value of lakes. For lake managers and recreational companies, the need for advanced, sustainable, and chemical-free algae management strategies has never been more urgent. Our technologies are at the forefront of this effort. They are redefining how recreational lakes are monitored and treated to ensure safe, enjoyable water for everyone.
Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are often caused by cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae. These organisms can produce toxins such as microcystins, anatoxins, and cylindrospermopsins. These toxins can affect humans and animals in various ways:
- Microcystins: These toxins primarily target the liver. They can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and even liver failure in severe cases. Prolonged exposure can increase the risk of liver cancer.
- Anatoxins: Known as “Very Fast Death Factor,” anatoxins impact the nervous system. They can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, respiratory distress, and, in extreme cases, paralysis and death.
- Cylindrospermopsins: These can damage the liver and kidneys. They cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and general malaise.
One tragic example of the dangers posed by algal blooms occurred in 2023. A dog named Cora died at El Dorado Beach in South Lake Tahoe due to harmful algal blooms (HABs). The case of Cora went viral as the owner, Anais Felt, posted about it on TikTok. A week later, the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection and the Lahontan Regional Water Quality Board conducted a comprehensive three-week investigation. This research was done to confirm whether HABs caused Cora’s death. They concluded that it was indeed due to the presence of HABs in the water.
Why traditional methods fall short
- Algaecides: Historically, algae management has relied heavily on reactive measures, such as chemical treatments or mechanical removal. Chemical treatments, such as algaecides, often fail to address the underlying causes of blooms. They cause the algal toxins to be released into the water more quickly and in greater quantities, recycling the nutrients that support blooms. There is ample evidence to support this.
The EPA demonstrates the negative health effects of chemical algaecides, especially those based on copper. The worst aspect is that they can be beneficial for blue-green algae in the long term. There is also residual toxicity and a significant risk to humans and fish. These treatments can lead to unintended consequences. One example is the release of intracellular toxins from dying algae, which further degrades water quality. Additionally, the repeated use of algaecides may contribute to chemical resistance in certain algal species. This resistance necessitates higher dosages over time. It creates a cycle of dependency that significantly increases costs. It also harms the lake’s ecological balance due to the proliferating cyanobacteria.
- Skimming and Dredging: Mechanical removal, such as skimming or dredging, is another common approach but often proves to be labor-intensive and costly, particularly for larger water bodies. This method primarily removes surface blooms, leaving the nutrient-rich sediments undisturbed, which can act as a persistent source of future blooms. Moreover, a major concern in regards to dredging is the process of sediment resuspension. This process increases the turbidity levels in the water, leading to a collection of sediments on the water surface. This increased turbidity can hinder light penetration into the water, adversely affecting aquatic plants and animals. Similarly, physical disruption of algal mats can inadvertently promote the spread of cyanobacteria, as fragments can regenerate under favorable conditions. These methods also fail to address the nutrient imbalances; such as excess nitrogen and phosphorus that typically drive algal growth.
The limitations of these traditional methods highlight the need for integrated, proactive solutions that target the root causes of algal blooms while preserving the natural ecosystem. LG Sonic’s innovative technologies, which focus on real-time monitoring and non-chemical treatment, represent a sustainable path forward for effective algae management and diminishing cyanobacteria up to 95%.
The Big Shift in Managing Algae
- Real-Time Water Quality Monitoring
One of the cornerstones of effective chemical-free algae management is understanding the water’s current state. The MPC-Buoy technology provides real-time data on critical parameters such as chlorophyll-a levels, dissolved oxygen, and temperature. This data empowers lake managers to detect early signs of algal blooms and take targeted action before they escalate.
- Ultrasound Technology: Non-Chemical and Eco-Friendly Control
Our ultrasound technology offers a game-changing alternative to traditional methods which is also chemical-free and sustainable. By disrupting the buoyancy of algae cells, the system prevents blooms from forming without the use of harmful chemicals. This approach preserves the natural balance of the lake’s ecosystem while effectively mitigating algal growth.
- Data-Driven Decision Making
The integration of IoT and AI in our systems allows for predictive analytics and customized management plans. By analyzing historical and real-time data, lake managers can implement tailored strategies that align with the unique characteristics of their lake, optimizing both effectiveness and cost efficiency.
Benefits of Chemical-free algae treatment for Key Stakeholders
For Lake Managers
- Cost Savings: By implementing non-chemical treatments such as the ultrasound technology, lake managers can drastically reduce recurring expenses associated with chemical algaecides and mechanical removal. These proactive solutions prevent the formation of algal blooms, eliminating the need for constant reactive measures.
- Proactive Management: Adapting real-time data through ultrasound technologies like the MPC-Buoy allows lake managers to monitor critical water quality parameters continuously. This ensures timely interventions and helps in identifying potential risks before they escalate, leading to more effective and efficient algae management.
- Ecosystem Health: Sustainable algae control methods preserve the delicate balance of aquatic ecosystems. By avoiding chemicals and promoting natural water quality improvements, these approaches protect biodiversity and ensure long-term ecological health, benefiting not only the water body but also surrounding wildlife.
For Recreational Companies
- Enhanced User Experience:Clean and safe water enhances the overall experience for visitors, encouraging activities like swimming, boating, and fishing. Consistently high water quality ensures a positive reputation among guests and encourages repeat visits, boosting revenue.
- Brand Reputation:By adopting environmentally conscious practices, recreational facilities can position themselves as leaders in sustainability. Demonstrating commitment to eco-friendly water management not only appeals to environmentally aware visitors but also strengthens partnerships with stakeholders.
- Compliance:Advanced algae management systems help recreational companies stay ahead of increasingly stringent environmental regulations. With technologies that monitor and mitigate harmful blooms, facilities can ensure compliance with local and international water quality standards, avoiding potential fines or closures.
Conclusion
In conclusion, managing harmful algal blooms in recreational lakes requires a shift from reactive, traditional methods to proactive, sustainable and chemical-free solutions. By leveraging real-time water quality monitoring, ultrasound technology, and data-driven approaches like LG Sonic’s innovative MPC-Buoy, stakeholders can effectively combat algal blooms while preserving the natural ecosystem. These advanced technologies not only offer long-term cost savings and environmental benefits but also enhance the recreational value of lakes, ensuring safe and enjoyable water experiences for all. Together, we can redefine algae management and secure a cleaner, healthier future for our water bodies.