The Chowan Algae Problem

As highlighted last year, the Chowan River has an Algae problem. Excess nutrients provide the key ingredient that, when combined with summer heat help fuel harmful algal blooms.

NC Sea Grant program is now funding research into the Chowan and the potential for continued harmful algal blooms. As stated by John Fear in a press release from NC Sea Grant, the research is timely because “water quality issues in this region are re-emerging after decades of calm. This work will help us understand how the algae toxins in the water respond to nutrient inputs and are translated into airborne molecules.” Wind currents can then transport airborne toxins inland from the waterfront.

This research was also highlighted last week in the news https://www.witn.com/2020/07/02/researchers-studying-algal-blooms-in-the-chowan-river/

With summer heat intensifying, it will be interesting to follow the results of this research.