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Cyanobacteria & Cyanotoxins

Aquatic microscopic algae and cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) occur naturally in most surface waters, however certain nutrient and temperature conditions can lead them to rapidly multiply, leading to “blooms.” Under certain conditions, some species of cyanobacteria can produce toxic secondary metabolites or cyanotoxins, which may pose health risks to humans and animals. Even when algae is not toxic, it can produce unpleasant tastes and odors.

Cyanobacteria continue to be one of the most problematic organisms in our fresh water systems—with nearly a third of the United States reporting blooms. Without clear guidance or consensus regulations in place, many utilities struggle with responding to events. Since 1994, WRF has completed more than 30 research projects on these microscopic organisms and the cyanotoxins they produce, helping facilities detect, monitor, and manage these nuisance organisms—as well as communicate with the public.

Topic Overview (PDF)
33 Projects 8 Webcasts
Nutrients
Compounds of Emerging Concern (CECs)
Reservoir Management
Source Water Protection
Project #4697

Four Steps to Effective Cyanotoxin Communications: A Risk Communications Toolkit

$157,045
Completed

Project Highlights

This project provides materials, templates, and tools for utilities, regulatory agencies, and water professionals to better communicate about the risks associated with cyanotoxins in drinking water supplies. The research team leveraged interviews with utilities and a digital engagement platform with...
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Principle Investigator
Tarrah
Henrie
Research Manager
Ms. Alice E Fulmer

Understanding Cyanotoxins & Cyanobacteria

Cyanobacteria and their pervasiveness in recreational and drinking water sources are a significant challenge for water utilities worldwide. This video provides information on the science behind cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins and a utility perspective on the latest in source water protection, monitoring, detection, and treatment. 

Recent Updates

Project #4702

March 15, 2017-August 14, 2017 - The project has accomplished the following activities in the first six months

Project Update
06/09/2019
Project #4702

The project has accomplished the following activities since the previous update: completed future condition data collection; completed current and future condition simulations; and more.

Project Update
07/03/2019
Project #4727

January 2018 - June 2018 - So far, we have initiated the project, established subcontracts and project management systems, and embarked on the first two tasks. Work to date includes a kick-off call with WRF staff and the Project Advisory Committee, and another kickoff call with participating utilities.

Project Update
06/09/2019
Project #4616

January 1, 2017 – July 31, 2017 - The research team continues working on the literature review to evaluate the current regulatory status for controlling discharges of Contaminants of Emerging Concern (CECs) of chemical and microbial origin in hospitals’ wastewater, the wastewater treatment technologies currently employed at the healthcare facilities, and best available technologies for managing CECs in hospitals’ wastewater (Task 1).

Project Update
06/09/2019
Project #4748

This update reflects the most recent 6 months of project activity, in which the research team completed its evaluation of risk management frameworks for source water risk management (SWRM).

Project Update
06/09/2019
Project #4748

During this project period, the research team has been developing guidance for utility implementation of the Source Water Risk Management (SWRM) Framework.

Project Update
06/09/2019

News

Seven RFPs Released for WRF Research

Press Release
09/27/2018
The Water Research Foundation (WRF) today announced that Requests for Proposals (RFPs) are available for six new research projects funded under the Solicited Research Program. In addition, one new RFP...
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Resources

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Related Projects

Project #0053

Current Methodology for the Control of Algae in Surface Reservoirs

Completed
Identifies and documents physical and chemical technologies for controlling algae in drinking water reservoirs, with particular emphasis on copper. Published in 1987.
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Project #2904

Control of Toxic Cyanobacterial Blooms in Water Bodies by Allelochemicals

Completed
Identifies and characterizes potent naturally occurring biochemical agents--allelochemicals--to control toxic populations of Microcystis in fresh water lakes. Tests the potential application of allelochemicals for bloom control under laboratory...
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Project #2746

Addressing Concerns About Tastes and Odors and Cyanotoxins in Tap Water

Completed
Develops a multi-barrier management plan to control taste-and-odor problems. Implements several algae control measures to reduce other algae-related problems such as potential health-related problems caused by algal biotoxins....
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Project #4912

Developing Guidance for Evaluation and Implementation for Control of HABs in Source Water

In Progress
As cyanobacteria blooms become more prevalent, utilities need improved guidance on early detection programs and source water control strategies. To meet this need, this project will review available...
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Project #4716

Refinement and Standardization of Cyanotoxin Analytical Techniques for Drinking Water

In Progress
At present, there is uncertainty relating to the state of the art for screening and confirmation of cyanotoxin samples. Water utilities need robust and dependable methods in order...
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Project #4920

Decision Support Framework for Drinking Water Treatment Plants Experiencing Lake Recovery

In Progress
Drinking water treatment plants were historically designed to address a narrow range of water quality parameters, and are often not easily able to adapt to changes in source...
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Related Topics

Link

Compounds of Emerging Concern (CECs)

Link

Reservoir Management

Link

Source Water Protection

Link

Climate Change

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