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Decoding Algae Blooms

  • Updated
  • 5 min to read

Algae blooms are a problem not just for Alexander City, but nationwide, affecting even the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool on the National Mall. We’re not talking about discolored water or sediment in your pipes. That’s another problem altogether, having to do with aging city infrastructure as well as old houses with old pipes.

Is this a topic for a health column? Yes, in fact, it is, because there are two types of algae blooms: harmful algae blooms and nuisance algae blooms. A nuisance bloom is irritating because it makes the water taste and smell earthy and unappetizing, but it isn’t harmful. So far, the algae blooms in Alexander City have been a nuisance, not a health hazard.

~ George Miranda is the director of the UAB Medicine – Russell Medical Cancer Center.

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  • Find out what type and amount of fertilizer is right for your yard by contacting the local county’s Extension office. In Tallapoosa County, call the Extension office at 256-825-1050 to ask about having your soil tested and for advice on the right type of fertilizer for your property.
  • Use a low-phosphorus fertilizer, and don’t apply it right before a heavy rain.
  • Prevent grass clippings and fallen leaves from washing into storm drains. Bag them or compost them. If you mulch, spread any excess that piles up.
  • Wash your car on the grass rather than on asphalt or concrete to reduce soapy runoff into the storm drain system. Better yet, go to a professional car wash that captures and recycles its water.
  • Use gravel or permeable pavers instead of asphalt or concrete whenever possible to allow water to infiltrate the ground rather than run off.
  •  Maintain your septic tank.
  • Use a low-phosphate or phosphate-free detergent, such as Seventh Generation.
  • Pick up your dog’s waste. I cannot overemphasize the impact pet waste has.
  • Conserve water. The less water each of us uses, the less stress is placed on the wastewater treatment system.
  • Especially heed the city’s plea: Don’t flush wipes and don’t pour grease down the sink.

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