(Toledo, OH) Researchers are taking a closer look at how algal blooms spread across Lake Erie.
A team from the University of Toledo will measure wind speeds and water temperatures over the next week to help forecast the movement of the toxic algae.
UT researchers are hoping to use their data to help issue water contact advisories along beaches and forecast the algal blooms' movement toward Toledo's water intake crib.
One UT researcher says winds can expand and shift the bloom significantly in just one day, especially as it continues to grow from being fed by spring rains and farm runoff nutrients, such as phosphorus. The research is key, because 500,000 people rely on Toledo's drinking water supply.