Blue-green algae impacts water quality, and some species produce toxins that can be harmful to people and animals.
Algae and associated toxins may be present in lakes and lagoons without being visible to the naked eye.
Sometimes algae can be mixed in the water column, or produce a smelly, thick scum on the water surface.
Algal blooms can occur every year with varying severity and can persist for weeks, months or even an entire season if the right conditions exist.