Published on The Post and Mail (http://thepostandmail.com)

Green with toxins: Algae overwhelms local ponds

By editor

Created 09/01/2012 - 12:21am

Christie Barkley

COLUMBIA CITY — Green scum blankets Phil and Dorothy Stevens pond. A particularly manicured lawn stands as evidence that the Stevens take care of their property, located just off Old Trail Rd. in Columbia City. The green film covering the face of their pond, isn’t due to neglect, but to blooming blue-green algae.

“We don’t know what is causing it,” said Dorothy.

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has issued numerous warnings about the green scum that has overtaken area ponds and lakes. The extreme summer heat, combined with drought conditions, have turned bodies of water into breeding grounds for toxic algae.

According to the Indiana Department of Environmental Management’s (IDEM) website, blue-green algae are a group of photosynthetic bacteria that appears to be blue-green in color. When environmental conditions are just right, they can multiply quickly.

Columbia City, IN

Staff Writer

Post and Mail

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