The American Water Works Association and the Water Research Foundation released a guide to help water utility managers detect and control cyanotoxins, the algae-related contaminants that led to a “do not drink” advisory for 400,000 people in Toledo, Ohio, last summer.
A Water Utility Manager’s Guide to Cyanotoxins addresses cyanotoxin occurrence, source water management and treatment strategies. Presented in a simple Q&A format, it is available for free download from both the AWWA and WRF websites. A more technical companion document is also in development.
Cyanotoxins typically arise from cyanobacteria — often referred to as blue-green algae in lakes and reservoirs — and can impact drinking water quality. While health
