• By Phyllis Smith
• Posted Friday, July 9, 2021

Harmful Algal Blooms: What to Know

Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) are becoming more frequent in North Carolina during summer months due to climate change and increased nutrients in water from stormwater runoff. Most HABs are caused by several species of potentially toxic cyanobacteria (frequently called blue-green algae) that can cause serious problems for people and animals when water is ingested as a result of irrigation, recreational use, or when livestock or pets use affected creeks or ponds as drinking water. In Forsyth County and surrounding areas, report HABs and associated fish kills to the Winston-Salem Regional Office of the N.C. Division of Water Resources by calling 336.766.9800. Click to learn more.