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Harmful Algal Blooms in South Carolina Residential and Golf Course Ponds

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Abstract

The South Carolina coastal zone is among the fastest growing areas in the U.S., and population epicenters are marked by dense brackish water pond (lagoon) coverage associated with housing complexes and golf courses. Surveillance efforts in 2001–2002 documented the widespread occurrence of several types of potentially or measurably toxic harmful algal blooms (HABs) in these ponds. These man-made retention ponds were constructed in order to serve as a buffer between developed areas and open estuaries or for aesthetic reasons. However, the combination of restricted tidal flow and nutrient and/or contaminant deposition creates a stimulatory environment for potential HAB formation. These discoveries introduce the need to consider mitigation measures to existing ponds and HAB preventive strategies for future pond construction.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Belle W. Baruch Institute for Marine Biology and Coastal Research, University of South Carolina, USA

    Alan J. Lewitus (Associate Marine Scientist)

  2. North Inlet-Winyah Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, USA

    Laura B. Schmidt, Larissa J. Mason, Jason W. Kempton, Jennifer L. Wolny, B. Jamie Williams, Charles J. Keppler & Amy H. Ringwood

  3. Belle W. Baruch Institute for Marine Biology and Coastal Research, USA

    Susan B. Wilde & Sabrina N. Hymel

  4. South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, Belle W. Baruch Institute for Marine Biology and Coastal Research, USA

    Kenneth C. Hayes

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  1. Alan J. Lewitus
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  2. Laura B. Schmidt
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  3. Larissa J. Mason
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  4. Jason W. Kempton
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  11. Amy H. Ringwood
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Lewitus, A.J., Schmidt, L.B., Mason, L.J. et al. Harmful Algal Blooms in South Carolina Residential and Golf Course Ponds. Population and Environment 24, 387–413 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1023642908116

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