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Could Climate Change Lead to Increased Beach Closures in WA Due to Algae or Bacteria?

Will climate change cause more WA beach closures because of algae or bacteria?

Environmental Monitoring at Pritchard Island Beach

At Pritchard Island Beach, the calm waters of Lake Washington are regularly sampled by Wyatt Klepac, an environmental lab scientist with King County. The samples are analyzed in a lab for bacterial growth and toxic algae, both potential threats to public health that could disrupt beachgoers’ swimming plans.

Climate change’s impact on such closures is still uncertain, but warmer water generally supports algae growth while bacteria often originates from animal waste. As temperatures rise, bodies of water serve as critical cooling points, especially for people without another means to escape the heat.

Over the last five years, beaches in King County have been closed nine times each swim season due to toxic algae and 15 times due to faecal bacteria. However, testing and reopening protocols have evolved over that time. The Rainier Beach park, one of the 27 locations where water samples are tested for harmful microbes by King County scientists, can offer insight into what might be expected this summer.

Understanding Toxic Algae

Toxic algae, a type of cyanobacteria (also called blue-green algae), produce toxins and pose a threat to public health. Cyanobacteria, one of the oldest organisms on Earth, are believed to have contributed to the creation of the oxygen we breathe today. Both cyanobacteria and green algae, a group of plant-like organisms, are essential parts of a healthy lake ecosystem. However, if they proliferate beyond the lake’s capacity, an algae bloom occurs, potentially leading to beach closures. Water samples are regularly tested for toxins and E. coli during the summer, and any reported cyanobacteria bloom triggers additional testing. A beach can reopen after one week of low bacteria or two weeks of low toxins.

The Mystery of Algae Toxins and Blooms

The exact cause of toxin production in cyanobacteria is not fully understood, according to Rebecca North, a professor at the University of Missouri who specializes in freshwater toxic algae. Cyanobacteria blooms, which can appear on the water as a paint spill, slimy scum, foam, or clumps, and may be blue-green, red, brown or pea colored, don’t always have toxins. Even if a specific strain of cyanobacteria that is known to produce toxins is blooming, it doesn’t guarantee toxin presence. Post-bloom toxin degradation can take time, and toxins can persist in the water even after the bloom has faded, North stated. A helpful gallery of examples is available online for public reference.

The Impact of Climate Change on Beach Closures

While there is a general expectation that climate change will increase algae growth, which might lead to more toxic algae, the relationship is complicated, says Rachael Gravon, a King County limnologist. A “universal relationship” between temperature, nutrients, and algae toxicity isn’t observed across all lakes.

Research into toxic algae is still relatively new, and testing is often reactive, initiated only after a bloom has been reported. Increased awareness has resulted in more reports, but data collection is often limited to warmer months. Thus, it’s difficult to determine whether toxic algae have become more prevalent as global temperatures have risen. In Seattle, toxic algae are most commonly detected in the fall due to nutrient circulation from windstorms and rain run-off. However, they have also been observed during winter.

Climate change might increase bacteria-related closures due to more frequent and intense rainstorms, according to King County ecologist Daniel Nidzgorski, but any impact is likely to be minor.

Original Story at www.seattletimes.com

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Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024