Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
We're working to fix a technical issue causing problems with our broadcasts. We'll have it resolved as soon as possible. We apologize for the inconvenience.

New App Lets You Help Gather Smith River Algae Data

Screen capture of the Smith River Algae App in the Google Play Store, March 5, 2018.

Algae growth is increasing on Montana’s famed Smith River and scientists don’t know why. So, they’re turning to the public for help.

Excessive algae can deplete oxygen and alter water pH levels, harming fish and other aquatic life in the process. Algae blooms are also a nuisance to humans who encounter them on rivers and lakes.

Since 2015 it’s been a growing problem on central Montana’s treasured Smith River and scientists want to know why. But, because the Smith is so remote and requires a float permit, it’s tough to collect data there. A new crowdsourcing mobile app is now available to help scientists get a better handle on the size and scope of the problem.

The Montana Department of Environmental Quality’s Jeni Garcin explains:

"It basically takes advantage of citizen science. People can go in, and using the application, take photos of what they see on the river; where the algae is -- where the algae isn’t is just as important to know. They submit it directly to DEQ. It comes straight to us and we can use it to map as we start to investigate on what the potential causes might be."

The data will eventually be compiled into a map that displays those algae patterns. Garcin says that map should be available by year’s end or early 2019.

The "Montana Smith River Algae App" is a free download from either Google Play or Apple’s App Store.

The project was funded with a $50,000 grant from the Environmental Protection Agency.

Edward O’Brien first landed at Montana Public Radio three decades ago as a news intern while attending the UM School of Journalism. He covers a wide range of stories from around the state.
edward.obrien@umt.edu.  
(406) 243-4065
Become a sustaining member for as low as $5/month
Make an annual or one-time donation to support MTPR
Pay an existing pledge or update your payment information
Related Content