Understanding toxic benthic cyanobacteria prevalence and risk factors in Nova Scotia surface waters

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Surface waters throughout Canada are increasingly impacted by cyanobacteria. Numerous cyanobacteria species produce toxic compounds which pose a significant health threat to humans and animals, and impair the use of water bodies for drinking water, recreation, and agriculture. Cyanobacteria can be either planktonic (free floating), or benthic (attached to stream and lake beds). The factors that contribute to planktonic cyanobacteria growth have received significant attention, however, the ecology of benthic cyanobacteria in Canadian surface waters is poorly understood. In most regions of Canada, including Nova Scotia, there is a paucity of research focused on understanding how prevalent these organisms are, or what factors contribute to blooms that could pose a risk to human and animal health. This issue has come to forefront in Atlantic Canada as there have been a growing number of animal deaths associated with ingestion of toxic benthic cyanobacteria. The primary objective of this research project is to characterize the risks posed by toxic benthic cyanobacteria in Nova Scotia surface water systems. This research will aim to identify environmental factors that contribute to the proliferation of benthic cyanobacteria and produce guidance and recommendations for managing associated human and animal health risks. This project will actively engage a variety of organizations to facilitate the research program and to transfer knowledge to a broad network of individuals involved in managing water resources and public safety in Nova Scotia. This initiative involves key partner organizations, at three levels of government (municipal, provincial, federal), that are responsible for water resources management and implementing policies to prevent humans and animals from being exposed to cyanobacteria toxins. The outcomes of this project will also have broad impact on the science and management of toxic benthic cyanobacteria risks across Canada.