Phosphorus

A microscopic look at a blue green algae bloom. Photo credit: Wikimedia commons.

Phosphorus is a limiting nutrient for plants in naturally oligotrophic lakes like much of Lake Champlain. However, due to phosphorous pollution from run-off, poor waste management and manure, phosphorus levels in many parts Lake Champlain have skyrocketed. This can stimulate unhealthy blue green algae blooms that threaten the health of the lake and its animal, human and plant inhabitants. The Lake Champlain Basin Program has a comprehensive website on the effects of phosphorus in the lake and the basin communities’ efforts to reduce pollution. Check it out here.