Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae)

Changes in the climate can affect human health, including: effects from extreme heat, extreme weather events, tickborne and-mosquito-borne diseases, cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) blooms, and air quality.

As temperatures in Lake Champlain and other fresh water bodies continue to warm due to climate change, and with more heavy precipitation, conditions will become more favorable for blooms to occur.

Climate Change is Impacting Drought in Vermont Drought is a prolonged dry period caused by less than normal rainfall or snowfall for an extended period of time. Drought can lead to water shortages, meaning there is less water available for...

Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, are common in Lake Champlain and other Vermont waters. Some types of cyanobacteria can release natural toxins or poisons (called cyanotoxins) into the water.

The Cyanobacteria (Blue-Green Algae) Tracker allows the public to check recent cyanobacteria bloom reports at shoreline sites and recreational swimming areas of Lake Champlain and various inland lakes in Vermont.

For Immediate Release: June 20, 2024 Media Contact: Ben Truman │ Vermont Department of Health 802-316-2117 / 802-863-7280 AHS.VDHMedia@vermont.gov Know What Cyanobacteria Blooms Look Like to Keep Your Family and Pets Safe WATERBURY, VT – Wondering what’s floating in Vermont’s...

Public Health GIS Maps The Health Department supports several web apps that address important public health issues using GIS technology. Some example use cases are: See if cyanobacteria blooms might affect your summertime water recreation plans. Find out if others...

Responding to climate change will benefit health now.