SoundHAB: Heterosigma bloom in Central Puget Sound

[Jack Rensel]

Heterosigma is blooming in central Puget Sound.  Although the total extent
of the bloom is not known, cell counts over the weekend were higher in the
backwater areas of Kitsap County and Bainbridge Island (Port Blakely and
Brownsville).  

 

However, ambient cell concentrations as high as 1.7 million cells per liter
were recorded last night near Bainbridge Island/Clam Bay fish farm areas but
mitigation efforts (upwelling of deep water) is apparently effective in
reducing cell concentrations to 0.3 million cells per liter in the fish
cages.  

 

The bloom was first reported late Friday night, but I didn't receive the
information until just now.   With the wind and rain expected today, it may
attenuate the intensity of the bloom, although clearing and sun tomorrow
(Tuesday) may allow for the bloom to become re-established.   It could go
either way based on past experience and the amount of wind mixing and
duration/intensity of the low pressure cell moving  through is key in this
process. 

 

More information may be available later today.

 

Jack

 

J.E. Jack Rensel Ph.D.

Rensel Associates Aquatic Sciences

4209 234th St. N.E.

Arlington WA 98223

360-631-6538

Jackrensel at att.net

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