Minnesota Pollution Control Agency

Contact: Jennifer Groebner, 651-296-7706 St. Paul, Minn. -- Unusual dry and warm weather conditions last summer caused excessive algae blooms on many lakes in the metro area, as well as central and southern Minnesota. Most of the algae blooms were harmless, but some of them produced toxins that led to unpleasant lake conditions and four known dog deaths. This spring, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and area partners are offering workshops to help educate local officials and water planners about harmful algal blooms and how to respond if a bloom happens in your lake. There are numerous forms of algae, but one form -- blue-green algae, can produce toxins that affect humans and animals. This type of algae is found throughout Minnesota, but thrives in warm, shallow, nutrient-rich lakes. Workshop presenters will review the science surrounding harmful algal blooms, share algae management strategies, and facilitate discussions. Three workshops will be held in early March. Each workshop is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., costs $15 and includes lunch. Locations include:
· March 4, Sauk Centre, Gerards Restaurant and Banquet Center, 1225 Timberline Drive,
· March 5, North Mankato, Best Western, 1111 Range Street, and
· March 6, St. Paul, MPCA Central Office, 520 Lafayette Road North. The St. Paul workshop will also be webcast at www.pca.state.mn.us. The workshops are open to the public, but people who directly deal with blue-green algal blooms, related health risks and communications are especially encouraged to attend. Space is limited. To register, learn more about the workshops and see the agenda, please visit: www.seagrant.umn.edu/news, or contact: Barb Liukkonen at 612-625-9256. The MPCA, Minnesota Sea Grant and the Center of Excellence for Great Lakes and Human Health are sponsoring the workshops.