**Atlanta's Algae: Is "Green" Foam Hiding Lung Mold?**

By Franklin Everett Shaw

January 11, 2026

Imagine strolling along the Chattahoochee River on a sunny Atlanta afternoon, only to be confronted by patches of unsettling green foam clinging to the water’s edge. It’s not the picturesque Georgia scene you envisioned, is it? This isn’t just an aesthetic nuisance; it could be a warning sign. We need to understand what this foam is, and more importantly, what it means for the health of Atlanta’s waterways and its residents.

The recent appearance of green foam in Atlanta-area waterways is raising concerns, and rightfully so. It’s crucial to determine if this is harmful algae or a potential carrier for lung-irritating molds like Aspergillus. This article will provide a guide on how Atlanta residents can identify suspicious foam, safely report concerns to the EPA or local water authorities, and protect themselves from potential respiratory risks.

First, let’s talk about what this foam could be. One possibility is harmful algal blooms (HABs), specifically cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae. These blooms can produce toxins called cyanotoxins, which are dangerous to humans and animals. Another, perhaps less obvious, threat is the potential for the foam to harbor molds, particularly Aspergillus. Aspergillus thrives in damp environments and can release spores into the air, posing a respiratory risk, especially to individuals with compromised immune systems or pre-existing lung conditions.

So, how can you tell the difference between relatively harmless foam and something potentially dangerous? It’s not always easy, but here are some key indicators:

• Color: While the foam in question is green, the shade matters. A bright, almost neon green is more indicative of algae. A duller, more earthy green could suggest decaying organic matter, which might harbor mold.
• Smell: Algal blooms often have a distinct, earthy, or musty odor. Mold, on the other hand, might smell damp, stale, or even slightly sweet.
• Texture: Algal blooms can create a thick, scummy layer on the water’s surface, while mold-laden foam might appear more clumpy or fibrous.
• Location: Note where you see the foam. Is it near areas with fertilizer runoff, sewage overflows, or stagnant water? These conditions are conducive to both algal blooms and mold growth.

Now, let’s get practical. You’ve spotted some suspicious foam. What do you do?

1. Do NOT touch it. This is the golden rule. Avoid any direct contact with the foam.
2. Take photos and videos. Document the appearance, location, and extent of the foam. This will be invaluable when reporting your findings.
3. Note the date, time, and specific location. GPS coordinates are ideal, but even a detailed description of the location will help authorities investigate.
4. Report your findings. Contact the following:
   • The Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD): They are the primary state agency responsible for water quality. Their website (epd.georgia.gov) provides contact information and reporting procedures.
   • The Fulton County Department of Health and Wellness (if applicable): If the foam is in Fulton County, they can provide local guidance and resources.
   • The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): While the EPD is the first point of contact, you can also report concerns to the EPA Region 4 office, which covers Georgia.
5. If you experience any respiratory symptoms, seek medical attention. Don’t wait to see if it gets better on its own. Explain your potential exposure to the foam to your doctor.

A common mistake people make is assuming that all green foam is automatically harmful algae. While that’s a valid concern, it’s important to consider other possibilities, like decaying organic matter or even industrial discharge. Another pitfall is delaying reporting. The sooner you report suspicious foam, the faster authorities can investigate and take appropriate action.

Let’s consider a hypothetical scenario. You live near the South River in DeKalb County and notice a large patch of bright green foam near a stormwater drain after a heavy rain. It has a strong, earthy smell. You take photos, note the location, and report it to the EPD. The EPD investigates and determines it’s a harmful algal bloom caused by nutrient runoff from nearby lawns. They issue an advisory warning residents to avoid contact with the water and take steps to reduce fertilizer use. This is a real-world example of how citizen reporting can lead to swift action and protect public health.

Protecting yourself from potential respiratory risks is paramount. If you live near waterways, consider the following:

• Monitor air quality reports. Pay attention to any advisories related to mold or air pollution.
• Use air purifiers with HEPA filters. These filters can remove mold spores and other airborne particles from your home.
• Keep your home well-ventilated. Open windows and use fans to circulate air, especially after rain.
• Avoid outdoor activities near waterways when foam is present. This is especially important for individuals with respiratory conditions.
• Consider wearing a mask when near waterways. A properly fitted N95 mask can filter out mold spores and other airborne particles.

The situation in Atlanta highlights a broader issue: the increasing prevalence of harmful algal blooms and mold growth in urban waterways. This is often due to a combination of factors, including:

• Nutrient pollution: Excess nutrients from fertilizers, sewage, and stormwater runoff fuel algal blooms.
• Climate change: Warmer temperatures and altered rainfall patterns create favorable conditions for both algae and mold.
• Aging infrastructure: Leaky sewer systems and inadequate stormwater management contribute to water pollution.

Addressing these challenges requires a multi-pronged approach, including:

• Investing in wastewater treatment infrastructure. Upgrading sewage treatment plants to remove more nutrients.
• Implementing stricter regulations on fertilizer use. Reducing nutrient runoff from agricultural and residential areas.
• Promoting green infrastructure. Using natural systems like rain gardens and bioswales to manage stormwater runoff.
• Educating the public. Raising awareness about the causes and consequences of water pollution.

The green foam in Atlanta’s waterways is a reminder that we must be vigilant about protecting our environment. By understanding the potential risks, knowing how to identify suspicious foam, and reporting concerns to the authorities, we can help safeguard the health of our communities and preserve the beauty of our natural resources. Don’t wait for someone else to take action. Be proactive, be informed, and be part of the solution.