It’s icky, scummy and floats in the water. It’s cyanobacteria season. Humboldt County’s Environmental Health issued a reminder last week for residents to keep their eyes peeled for algae on rivers and lakes that can produce harmful compounds. Growths of algae generally pick up in late July and August, as water slows down and heats up, situating Humboldt County at the start of the season. “They’re most likely to occur later in the summer when the river flows are low,” said Ben Dolf, a supervising environmental health specialist for Humboldt County. Water warms up to create conditions for algae blooms to be more likely in freshwater, he said, including the harmful kind.

Related article:

• National Geographic: Algal blooms can be toxic for dogs. Here’s how to keep them safe when swimming