The Utah HAB Squad is helping collect important real-time data on the status of harmful algal blooms (HABs) across the state during recreation season. Volunteers are asked to make frequent (weekly or every other week) observations of priority lake and stream sites to collect data on where and when HABs are showing up. We work directly with the Utah Division of Water Quality to identify priority sites and notify them when blooms are present, so the state can issue health advisories to the public.
HAB Squad Volunteer Registration
Manuals and Datasheet
HAB Monitoring Instructions Field ID Guide HAB Field Datasheet
To begin, make sure the suspected bloom is not filamentous green algae or duckweed, two common and harmless aquatic plants. Green algae come in many forms and may look like underwater moss, thick stringy mats or floating slimy scum. Duckweed are tiny aquatic plants with a grainy or couscous-like texture. They may resemble miniature lily pads and are generally beneficial to the environment.
Duckweed
Green Algae
Duckweed
Green Algae
