Models to forecast freshwater algal and
cyanobacterial blooms
The following spreadsheet
contains two models useful for water resource managers, lake
owners, and researchers to forecast algal, cyanobacterial
(blue-green algal), and toxic cyanobacterial blooms in lakes,
ponds, and reservoirs. The models incorporate either
Secchi depth (measured in meters) or
commonly measured water
quality parameters, such as chlorophyll a or total
phosphorus concentrations, to predict algal blooms and their
associated water quality risks. The current spreadsheet
incorporates data from 103 waterbodies across Alabama that vary
widely in morphology, mixing regime, flow, and nutrient concentrations sampled during the summers of 2008-2009. We
are currently evaluating the utility of these models for sites
throughout the Southeast. We will update the models, as
well as provide alternative models specific for certain types of waterbodies, in the future. Please use the models and
let us know if they are useful for you and/or if you have
any questions, comments, or concerns about the models.
