COVID-19: Beginning September 9, the Utah Department of Environmental Quality is reopening offices with Low Level (Yellow) Restrictions. In an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19, we are limiting person-to-person contact. Please contact DEQ here to conduct business.

Harmful Algal Blooms Home

Warning

Read the latest on the North Fork of the Virgin River

Due to state budget cuts, EPA is funding the Division of Water Quality’s harmful algal bloom program with a one-time grant. This limits DWQ’s monitoring to only 18 priority waterbodies across Utah. Sampling will begin July 14, 2020.

Please Note: This map provides current data on harmful algal blooms AND waterborne pathogens. DWQ does not monitor all the sites on the map for both types of contaminants.

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Monitoring Locations
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Health Watch
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Advisory Warning
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Danger Warning

Report a Bloom

24-Hour DEQ Environment Incidents Line: (801) 536-4123

Call Utah Poison Control Center

If you believe you or your pet have been exposed to a harmful algal bloom, call (800) 222-1222.

Protect Your Dog

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) develop when naturally occurring cyanobacteria in the water multiply very quickly to form green or blue-green water, scum, or mats. These blooms can produce potent cyanotoxins that pose serious health risks to humans, pets, and livestock.

How To Stay Safe

  1. Don’t swallow water when swimming.
  2. Wash hands with clean water before eating or preparing food.
  3. Clean fish well and discard the guts.
  4. Keep animals away.
  5. Recognize the signs of a bloom, and when in doubt, stay out.
Protect Yourself

Visit HABs Photo Gallery

See examples of HABs in Utah in the photo gallery.

Protect Yourself

Protect Yourself

Learn about health risks to people and pets exposed to algal blooms and what you can do to recreate safely.

Learn about HABs

Learn About HABs

Got questions? Find more info about harmful algal blooms.

Contact Information

Dr. Kate Fickas Recreational Health Advisory Program Coordinator
(801) 536-4323