Rep. Kaptur Statement on Updated Algal Bloom Predictions
Prolonged rainfall has significantly increased nutrient load entering Lake Erie
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur expressed concern today following news that algal bloom severity projections for this year have been revised upward. The elevated threat is attributed to two weeks of heavy rain that have significantly increased the amount of phosphorous and other nutrients entering Lake Erie.
“While early projections suggested Lake Erie algal blooms could be less of a threat this year, weeks of heavy rain have dampened those hopes,” said Rep. Kaptur. “These updated predictions make it more important than ever for federal, state, and local agencies to work together, using official recommendations and the latest research findings, to prepare for the coming algal bloom season. This also shows the importance of detailed monitoring of the rivers that feed Lake Erie to ensure researchers can track and understand the root cause of these harmful algal blooms. I continue to support efforts by state and local leaders to use the best available information to set responsible phosphorous limits without delay.”
Rep. Kaptur recently co-hosted a briefing with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration on the use of algal bloom tracking and forecasting data. She has actively pursued improvements in federal responses to harmful algal bloomsandsupported state and local efforts to reduce nutrient loads entering Lake Erie. She co-sponsored legislation directing EPA to appoint an algal bloom response coordinator for the Great Lakes, secured federal funding for improved conservation practices, and sponsored legislation to limit nutrient runoff into Lake Erie. Kaptur also praised plans for a $3.6 million algal bloom satellite early warning system using data from NASA, USGS, NOAA and the US EPA, and successfully called on NASA to fund the project at the national level. She currently serves as co-chair of the Great Lakes Task Force in the House of Representatives.
Harmful algal blooms cost the U.S. $64 million every year in the form of additional water treatment and the loss of recreational water usage and declining waterfront real estate values.
###