Tackling Algae Blooms with Real-Time Nutrient Monitoring

Using Nitrate, Phosphate and Chlorophyll Sensors to Protect Our Watersheds

Harmful Algae Blooms (HAB's) are becoming more frequent, intense and widespread due to increased nutrient pollution and rising temperatures. These blooms can devastate ecosystems, threaten public health and damage local economies. But new online water quality monitoring tools are making it possible to track, predict and respond to algae blooms before they become dangerous.

Why Monitor Nutrients?

The primary culprits behind algal blooms are excessive levels of nitrate and phosphate, often from:

• Agricultural runoff
• Livestock operations
• Fertilizer use in suburban lawns and golf courses
• Urban stormwater outflows

These nutrients feed algae growth in lakes, rivers and coastal zones, especially during warm months. When blooms form, they can:

• Deplete oxygen (causing fish kills)
• Release toxins harmful to humans and animals
• Damage drinking water infrastructure

Tools for Real-Time Algal Bloom Tracking

Nitrate & Phosphate Testing

Nitrate and phosphate testing are crucial for assessing water quality and identifying potential health and environmental risks. Excess nitrates and phosphates can lead to algal blooms, which deplete oxygen levels and harm aquatic life, impacting ecosystems and potentially causing health issues in humans and animals.

Regular nutrient testing is the first line of defense. For professionals monitoring runoff or surface waters, we recommend:

Multi-Parameter Water Quality Analyzer (#870001)

• Integrates up to eight different water quality parameters into a single unit.
• Tailor monitoring parameters to your specific requirements with flexible combinations and custom setups.

Online Digital Ion Sensor (870001-ION)

• Selectable ion measurement options
• Compact design for easy installation

Chlorophyll-A Measurement

Chlorophyll-A is a key indicator of algal biomass. Elevated readings suggest active or imminent algal blooms. Because chlorophyll A is the most-abundant type of chlorophyll, it can be used to measure the amount of algae growing in a body of water. The higher the concentration of chlorophyll-a, the greater the algal content. While some algae is needed to sustain the food web, too much can lead to dissolved oxygen deficiencies, fish kills, and public health concerns over potential toxin production. 

Online Digital Chlorophyll A Sensor (870001-CHL)

• Provides rapid, in situ measurements of chlorophyll-A.
• A powerful tool for tracking bloom development in lakes, reservoirs and coastal zones.
  

Online Blue-Green Algae Sensor (870001-ALG)

• Blue-Green Algae (BGA), also known as cyanobacteria, can exhibit a range of colors such as blues, greens, reds and black.
• Monitors various colors of cyanobacteria, crucial for assessing water quality.
• Tracks algae levels to prevent reductions in nitrogen, carbon and dissolved oxygen, which affect ecosystem stability.

Other Key Measurements

Keeping bodies of water healthy for aquatic life requires more than just keeping algae blooms in check. Other key parameters to track include:

Online Digital Graphite Conductivity Sensor (870001-CON)

• High-quality electrode ensuring precise measurements and responsive performance.
  
• Integrated temperature probe for real-time temperature compensation.
  

Online Digital pH Sensor (870001-PH)

• Integrated temperature probe for real-time temperature compensation.
• Consistent, accurate readings.

Online Turbidity Sensor (870004-TB)

• Assess the clarity of lakes, rivers and streams.
• Monitor effluent quality and ensure water meets regulatory standards.

From Data to Action: Mapping and Alerts

Real-time monitoring isn’t just about data - it’s about turning data into insight. With the right tools and options, Sper Scientific meters can be integrated into:

• Remote sensing platforms

• Watershed monitoring stations

• GIS-based water quality mapping systems

This allows users to visualize nutrient hotspots, track bloom formation over time and create alert thresholds for proactive water management.

Applications Across a Variety of Sectors

Our customers use these meters in a wide range of applications:

• Environmental research (universities, NGOs)

• Municipal water utilities

• Agricultural runoff studies

• Coastal management agencies

• Watershed alliances and conservation groups
  
  

Final Thoughts

Nutrient and algal bloom monitoring is no longer optional - it’s a necessity in today’s rapidly changing environment. With Sper Scientific’s online monitors and sensors, professionals can track critical indicators and take action to protect our vital waterways, streams, lakes and rivers and other water resources.

Explore our full line of water quality monitoring instruments here:
Online Water Quality Measurement at SperDirect.com

If you need help selecting the right tools for your watershed or research project, please feel free to contact us here with your questions.