The North Central Regional Water Network of which SDSU is a part of is working on mitigating harmful algal blooms that can cause things such as dead zones and fish kills. They also create problems for drinking water for livestock. SDSU Extension Water Management Engineer John McMaine says the algal growth takes oxygen out of the water leading to dead zones like what’s been seen in the Gulf of Mexico.
He says proper nutrient management is important in dealing with harmful algal blooms.
McMaine says livestock producers need to pay close attention to harmful algal blooms especially if they get in livestock drinking sources.
McMaine says good nutrient management is one of the best preventative steps producers can take with their livestock water sources. He says if you notice your livestock getting sick or having problems with a particular drinking source, it’s good to have the water tested at a lab.
