New study center awarded $6.5 million grant to investigate climate change, harmful algal blooms and human health in Great Lakes region
Researchers at the University of Michigan have been awarded a $6.5 million grant to establish a new center focused on studying the connections between climate change, harmful algal blooms, and human health in the Great Lakes region. The center will be located in Ann Arbor and will be supported by experts from the University of Toledo and the University of Michigan.
Harmful algal blooms, which are caused by blue-green algae or cyanobacteria, are on the rise due to factors such as increased precipitation, stronger storms, and warmer Great Lakes waters. These blooms can produce toxins that are harmful to humans, pets, and wildlife. While they are commonly associated with Lake Erie, cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (cHABs) are now found in all five Great Lakes. They can look like spilled paint, scum, streaks, mats or discoloration of the water. They typically occur between May and October with higher chances in August and September.
Exposure to cHAB toxins can result in symptoms such as runny eyes or nose, asthma-like reactions, difficulty breathing, stomach issues
