Date of Graduation

5-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Biology

Degree Level

Undergraduate

Department

Biological Sciences

Advisor/Mentor

Dr. Brian Haggard

Committee Member

Dr. Daniel Lessner

Second Committee Member

Dr. Michelle Evans-White

Third Committee Member

Daniela D’Eugenio

Abstract

The presence of harmful algal blooms (HABs) poses many risk factors for human health, and once microcystin concentration has reached a certain level, that water source will be closed for the duration of the bloom. Agencies tend to use static signage with limited information to inform the public about the current status of the water, but a sign similar to the one used by the National Fire Danger Rating System can allow for constant updates detailing specific risk levels for the public. Using previously reported data on Lake Fayetteville, thresholds for risk factors that are easily measurable were determined. The factors used included pH, specific conductivity, temperature, raw fluorescence units of phycocyanin and chlorophyll, and the visual presence of surface scum. These were then organized into a dichotomous decision process to help suggest likely levels of risk in the water. As the number of thresholds met increases, so does the likely risk level of the water. These levels of likely risk include low, moderate, high, and extreme. The use of this dichotomous process can help inform personnel monitoring Lake Fayetteville on how to adjust a dynamic sign to provide the public with up-to-date information about the potential risk of HABs in the water.

Keywords

cyanobacteria; Lake Fayetteville; harmful algal blooms; microcystins; water quality

Additional Files
dichotomous process.pdf (104 kB)
Dichotomous Process for Assessing Risk Level at Lake Fayetteville
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