What to know about harmful algae blooms

Harmful algae blooms, also known as toxic algae, are abundant this time of year. Redwood News found blooms in the Mad River on Monday, as well as a light-green plant-like material floating on the surface.

The Humboldt County Health Department says low flows and higher temperatures cause the blooms. They can look dark-green, blue-green, black, orange, or even brown.

The bloom we found also smelled like stagnant water, which the health department says is another indicator of an algae bloom.

They may look harmless but the centers for disease control and prevention says these blooms can produce toxins that are dangerous to humans and pets. The health department warns to stay out of water with suspected algae blooms. Don’t drink, cook, or wash dishes with water from rivers, streams, or lakes. And only eat fish after removing the guts and liver, then rinsing fillets in tap water.

To report a suspicious algae bloom, call the local health department.