Harmful Algal Blooms & Impoundments

The Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) and Impoundments Project is an effort by the Joint Water Commission (JWC) and the Tualatin River Watershed Council (TRWC) to reduce HABS within the Drinking Water Source Area (DWSA) and promote best management practices (BMPs) for landowners, farmers, and/or nursery managers who have impoundments on their properties. 

Impoundments are confined bodies of water such as reservoirs, cattle ponds, and aquatic nursery beds. Because of the nature of waters’ confinement, if not managed correctly, it is possible for these water bodies to collect contaminants which can lead to HABs. This can be dangerous in the event that HABs are transported to or from bodies of water which our drinking water comes from. 

The purpose of this project is to identify and assist in characterizing surface water impoundments within the DWSA that could contribute to HABs. The watershed council will assist the JWC with landowner outreach, BMP development, and access to resources to better maintain permanent impoundments in order to keep our drinking water clean and safe.