A North Dakota State University Extension livestock specialist is warning producers to take steps to prevent cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, which can produce toxins that are harmful to livestock, wildlife and people.

“This summer, cyanobacteria blooms have been in the headlines frequently,” says Miranda Meehan, Extension livestock environmental stewardship specialist. “Several of the blooms have produced high toxin levels, requiring the issuance of a water advisory for recreationists and resulting in the death of several livestock.”

This has led to inquiries on treating cyanobacteria.

“These treatments kill the bacteria,” Meehan says. “However, toxins are released when the bacteria die, increasing the risk for poisoning. Additionally, these products can be deadly to beneficial aquatic organisms and wildlife.”

The treatments are only good for the current bloom. For long-term prevention, you need to understand the causes of a bloom, Meehan says.

Blue algae causes

Cyanobacteria blooms are caused by excess levels of nutrients, specifically nitrogen and phosphorus. The most common sources of excess nutrients in North Dakota are runoff or soil erosion from fertilizer and manure.

The following practices can reduce nutrient levels, lowering the risk of cyanobacteria blooms in the future and enhancing water quality:

“Several state and federal programs provide assistance to landowners interested in implementing conservation and management practices to improve nutrient management and water quality,” says James Collins of the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality. “Contact your local Soil Conservation District, Natural Resources Conservation Service or Farm Service Agency to learn more about these programs.”

If managed properly, fertilizers and animal manures benefit crop production without causing environmental problems.

More information

Learn more about managing nitrogen and phosphorus in NDSU Extension publications “Nitrogen Behavior in the Environment” and “Phosphorus Behavior in the Environment”.

Visit the Department of Environmental Quality online to learn more about cyanobacteria (harmful algae blooms), refer to the NDSU Extension publication “Cyanobacteria Poisoning (Blue-green Algae)” or call your local NDSU Extension agent or the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality at 701-328-5210.

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