Harm Reduction

Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) occur when nutrient-rich runoff enters lakes and ponds, creating favorable conditions for bacteria that produce potent cyanotoxins. In addition to the usual negative environmental impacts associated with too much algae in freshwater, HABs can seriously sicken people and animals. A new Lake Wallenpaupack Watershed Management District project funded through PEC's Pocono Forests and Waters Conservation Landscape Mini-Grants program aims to educate northeastern Pennsylvanians on the dangers of HABs and how to prevent them from occurring.