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NJ Lakes Face Surge in Harmful Algal Blooms

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  Published in Stocks and Investing on Wednesday, March 18th 2026 at 9:38 GMT by PBS
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Trenton, NJ - March 18th, 2026 - New Jersey's lakes and waterways are once again experiencing a surge in harmful algal blooms (HABs), prompting urgent warnings from the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). These blooms, characterized by visible discoloration and potentially toxic effects, are appearing earlier and with increasing intensity, raising serious concerns for public health, recreational activities, and the long-term health of New Jersey's aquatic ecosystems.

The DEP has been actively monitoring numerous lakes across the state, posting advisories at access points, and urging residents to avoid contact with water exhibiting bloom conditions. According to DEP spokesperson Lawrence Hajemier, "We're seeing these blooms popping up earlier than we expected, indicating a worsening trend." The blooms aren't limited to a handful of locations; reports are coming in from lakes throughout the state, indicating a widespread problem.

These aren't simply aesthetic issues. HABs are fueled by a complex interplay of environmental factors, notably warmer water temperatures and an excess of nutrients - specifically nitrogen and phosphorus. Hajemier explains that this year's conditions are particularly conducive to bloom formation: "We've had a warm winter, a lot of rain, and significant fertilizer runoff. That's a perfect storm for these blooms to thrive."

The toxins produced by certain types of algae within these blooms pose a significant threat to both humans and animals. Exposure can lead to a range of symptoms, including skin irritation, nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, liver damage. Pets are particularly vulnerable, as they are more likely to ingest contaminated water while swimming or drinking. The DEP strongly advises anyone suspecting exposure to seek immediate medical attention.

Beyond Immediate Symptoms: Long-Term Impacts and Ecosystem Concerns

The current situation isn't merely a temporary inconvenience; it signals a potentially irreversible shift in the health of New Jersey's freshwater resources. Environmental advocate Laura Turkington highlights the escalating nature of the problem. "The increasing frequency and intensity of these blooms are a serious concern. We need to take action to reduce nutrient pollution and protect our lakes." This requires a multi-faceted approach targeting the root causes of nutrient loading.

Sources of nutrient pollution are varied and complex. Agricultural runoff, including fertilizers and animal waste, contributes significantly. Similarly, stormwater runoff from urban and suburban areas carries fertilizers from lawns and gardens, as well as sewage overflows during heavy rainfall. Aging septic systems also contribute to the problem, leaching nutrients into groundwater and ultimately into lakes and streams. The interaction between these sources, exacerbated by climate change, creates a challenging situation.

Beyond the direct health risks, HABs disrupt aquatic ecosystems. As blooms die and decompose, they consume dissolved oxygen in the water, creating "dead zones" where fish and other aquatic life cannot survive. This can lead to fish kills, impacting recreational fishing and the overall biodiversity of the affected waterways. The blooms also block sunlight, hindering the growth of beneficial aquatic plants that provide habitat and oxygenate the water.

Climate Change: An Accelerating Threat

The situation is expected to worsen in the coming years as climate change continues to impact New Jersey. Warmer air and water temperatures create ideal conditions for algal blooms, while more frequent and intense rainfall events exacerbate nutrient runoff. Scientists predict that these trends will lead to more widespread and prolonged HAB events, placing increasing strain on the state's water resources and public health infrastructure.

What's Being Done and What Needs to Be Done The DEP is currently focused on monitoring, issuing advisories, and conducting research to better understand HAB dynamics. However, experts agree that a more proactive and comprehensive strategy is needed. This includes:

• Reducing Nutrient Pollution: Implementing stricter regulations on fertilizer use, improving stormwater management practices, and upgrading aging septic systems.
• Investing in Wastewater Treatment: Modernizing wastewater treatment plants to remove more nitrogen and phosphorus before discharge.
• Promoting Best Management Practices: Encouraging farmers to adopt sustainable agricultural practices that minimize nutrient runoff.
• Public Education: Raising awareness about the risks of HABs and how to identify and avoid them.
• Enhanced Monitoring: Expanding the DEP's monitoring network to provide earlier and more accurate warnings.

The situation demands urgent attention and collaborative action. Protecting New Jersey's lakes and waterways from the escalating threat of harmful algal blooms is crucial for safeguarding public health, preserving biodiversity, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the state's precious water resources. More information can be found on the DEP's website: [ https://www.nj.gov/dep/watershedmgt/hab/ ].