Constraints

  • Variability in the cause of HABs across different systems
  • Number of stakeholders involved
  • Lack of Historical HAB Data

Criteria

  • Assessment process designed must be easily applied to other freshwater systems
  • Designed process makes use of free, open source software
  • Make deliverable simple to understand for people who live on/around lake

Applicable Standards

  • National Field Manual (NFM) for the Collection of Water Quality Data (USGS, 2006)
    • Chapter A4 must be followed to ensure quality control in environmental investigation
  • Virginia Department of Health (VDH) Swimming Advisory Levels (VDH, 2019)
    • "Do Not Swim" if:
    • Total Toxigenic Species > 100,000 cells/mL
    • Microcystis Species > 40,000 cells/mL
    • Microcystin Toxin > 8 ppb
    • Cylindrospermopsin Toxin > 15 ppb
  • Standards on Biosolid Application (CFR, 2018)
    • Biosolids regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under title 40, section 503(b) of the Code of Federal Regulations
  • Conservation Practice Standard: Riparian Forest Buffer (NRCS, 2010)
    • Code 391 discusses the standards for using riparian forest buffers as a best management practice properly
    • Could be implemented in various areas around the lake in order to reduce nutrient loads


Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). (2018). S503.1-48: Standards for the use or disposal of sewage sludge. – Washington, D.C.: CFR.

NRCS Standards. (2010). 391: Riparian Forest Buffer. Washington, D.C.: NRCS. Retrieved from https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/nrcs143_026098.pdf

USGS. (2006). National Field Manual for the Collection Water-Quality Data – Chapter A4. Collection of Water Samples. Retrieved from https://water.usgs.gov/owq/FieldManual/chapter4/pdf/Chap4_v2.pdf

VDH. (2019). Virginia HAB Task Force-Working Document-Guidance for Freshwater Harmful Algae Bloom Advisory Management. Retrieved from www.SwimHealthyVa.com