The Effects of Climate Change on Algae in the Denver Metro Area's Drinking Water Reservoirs

Date of Award

11-11-2010

Document Type

Undergraduate Capstone Project

Degree Name

Master of Applied Science

Organizational Unit

University College, Environmental Policy and Management

Disciplines

Environmental Policy & Mgmt

First Advisor

Kathy Flanagan

Keywords

Algae, Climate change, Colorado, Denver, Drinking, Water

Abstract

Six Denver metro water reservoirs were sampled to see what types of algae were found, and what impact the algae would have on drinking water reservoirs in the event of a bloom caused by warming water temperatures. Each sample contained algae. Toxic cyanobacteria, filamentous green algae, and different species of diatoms were found in the samples. Current climate change models show the temperature along the Front Range is rising and will continue to rise. With an increase in climate change and an increase in population, humans and animals will be at a greater risk of ingesting or coming into contact with toxic algae.

Publication Statement

Copyright is held by the author. Permanently suppressed.

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