An algal bloom requires three elements: light, warm temps and nutrients—but the nutrients that fed the recent bloom in Forest Pond near Salmon Cove has not yet been identified.
DFO research scientist Cynthia McKenzie has studied water samples taken from the area and has identified green algae as the cause of the discolouration in the pond.
Area residents are upset by the changes in the pond and are especially concerned with dead fish seen floating in the water and lining the shoreline.
McKenzie says the fish were killed by a lack of oxygen caused by the bloom. She says when there are enough nutrients to feed the bacteria, it forms a blanket on the surface, preventing oxygen from being replenished for the creatures living in the body of water.
As for what nutrients are feeding the bloom, McKenzie did not test for specific pollutants and can’t say for certain as the provincial government has done further testing on water samples.
She has not yet heard back from the province, but says most algae need nitrogen and phosphorous to grow.
McKenzie says the algae will eventually dissipate on its own, and she expects things will improve after the rain experienced over the last day or two.