Varying in size from single-cell forms to sea kelp, algae comprise a large portion of the food source for aquatic organisms and produce oxygen that enriches both the water and air. However, a surplus of algae can be an odorous result of water pollution.

Blue-green algae produce toxins that can affect humans and animals. It can be fatal in large amounts and contact with it can cause skin and eye irritations or stomach ailments if swallowed. To learn more about toxic algae visit the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency?EUR??,,????'?????<www.pca.state.mn.us/water/clmp-toxicalgae.html.

Chlorophyll gives algae its green color. Algae use chlorophyll to capture energy from sunlight to feed on surrounding nutrients. How we fertilize lawns, maintain septic systems, treat wastewater, develop our lakeshores and run our farms and businesses can make the difference between a green lake and a clear lake.

Minnesota will begin a series of public hearings on proposed updates to water quality standards beginning late August.