Water Resources Research Act Program

Details for Project ID UT_2023_Young

Evaluating Cyanobacteria and Cyanotoxins in Surface Water Aerosols near Utah Lake

Institute: Utah
Year Established: 2023 Start Date: 2023-09-01 End Date: 2024-08-31
Total Federal Funds: $34,379 Total Non-Federal Funds: $33,863

Principal Investigators: Sierra Young

Project Summary: Harmful algal blooms (HABs) happen when algae or bacteria grow in high enough densities to harm animals and humans. These bacteria can often produce harmful toxins, called cyanotoxins. While the presence of cyanotoxins in water has been well-documented, evidence suggests that these toxins and bacteria may become airborne from wave action or other mechanisms, posing a threat to people that may be living near or recreating in water bodies. This study will use a variety of techniques to sample air during active HAB events at Utah Lake in UT. We will analyze the collected samples for the presence of cyanotoxins routinely produced by cyanobacteria found in Utah water bodies. Results from this study will improve understanding of the potential risk of inhaling airborne toxins during active HABs.