Northern Hemisphere Plankton Blooms in 2014

Spring and summer water conditions promoted plankton blooms off the shores of northern hemisphere continents.
Algae Bloom on Lake Erie
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Algae Bloom on Lake Erie

Microcystis blooms have become a regular occurrence on the lake. In 2014, the bloom was especially intense around the water intake for Toledo, Ohio, causing managers to warn residents not to consume public drinking water for several days.

Published Aug 5, 2014

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Phytoplankton Bloom off the Pacific Northwest
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Phytoplankton Bloom off the Pacific Northwest

Upwelling currents and summer weather promoted a large bloom of floating, microscopic plants off the coast of Oregon and Washington.

Published Jul 31, 2014

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Springtime in the Gulf of Alaska
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Springtime in the Gulf of Alaska

A confluence of changing weather and abundant nutrients sets the table for a feast of phytoplankton.

Published May 27, 2014

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