Carson City, NV — As temperatures rise and Nevadans seek relief in the state’s lakes, rivers, and reservoirs, the Nevada Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) Task Force urges residents and visitors to stay informed about HABs to safely enjoy the state’s water bodies.
In Nevada, cyanobacteria, sometimes referred to as blue-green algae, are naturally present in surface waters and play an important role in aquatic food webs and biochemical processes. When specific conditions occur, such as high nutrients, warm temperatures, and stagnant water, these organisms can reproduce rapidly, creating a bloom that can sometimes lead to a HAB. HABs are a growing concern in Nevada due to factors such as nutrient pollution and rising water temperatures.
While not all algae blooms are harmful, some blooms can produce toxins dangerous to humans, animals, and aquatic life. The presence of toxins cannot be identified without testing. Symptoms of exposure can include skin irritation, respiratory issues, gastrointestinal problems and can be fatal to dogs and other pets. In Nevada, HAB season typically occurs between June and October.
The Nevada HAB Task Force provides the following safety tips to help the public, pets, and other animals stay safe: The Nevada HAB Task Force is a multi-agency collaboration that began in 2019 and was formalized in 2024. The Task Force brings together experts from cross-disciplinary fields and includes representatives from the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection, the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services Office of State Epidemiology, the Nevada Division of State Parks, the Nevada Department of Wildlife, and the Nevada Department of Agriculture to address the growing challenge of HABs in Nevada. This partnership leverages state-of-the-art satellite imaging, cyanotoxin analysis, and water quality monitoring practices to provide updates on the presence of HABs in Nevada. The Task Force is dedicated to protecting public health, aquatic ecosystems, and recreational resources by ensuring timely detection effective management increased public awareness through cutting-edge science community engagement. These guiding principles are all part of the Nevada HAB Strategic Response Plan developed implemented through collaborative efforts of the HAB Task Force.
Researchers from the University of Nevada Reno are conducting in-depth studies to understand environmental factors contributing to HABs. Over the next five years plans expand its monitoring network enhance data collection capabilities secure additional funding resources support ongoing research public outreach initiatives.
