Algae Field Guide

Questions on the algae wash-up report are designed to narrow down which algae is present on the shoreline.

WARNING: Some algae is toxic and can be harmful to humans and animals. Please no NOT touch algae unless you are wearing the proper protective equipment (i.e. gloves, enclosed footwear, etc.)
If there is no algae on the shoreline move on to next report
Coast Watchers must choose if they think the algae is Filamentous or Planktonic based on what they observe.
- Filamentous algae: Algae that is linked together to form threads or a mesh like mat or
- Planktonic algae: Algae that floats in the water column causing water to become green, brown, or reddish
The algae field guide is available for reference in the field. It is located near the top of the algae wash-up report on the Coast Watchers app.
Use the drop down menu of words that describe the appearance, colour and odor of the algae.
Estimate the length (extent of algae into water) and width (extent of algae along shoreline) of the algae both on land and in the water.
Make notes if you see other things of interest, including animals in the algae, litter, or a potential cause of the bloom.
Photo submission is mandatory for the algae wash-up report.