The findings highlight the environmental and public health risks associated with climate change and water management. Cyanobacteria blooms can harm aquatic ecosystems and pose health risks to humans and animals, particularly children and pets, who are more vulnerable to microcystin poisoning. The study underscores the importance of monitoring and managing water levels to mitigate these risks. The ongoing drought in the western U.S. and low snowpack levels in the mountains further exacerbate the situation, potentially leading to more frequent and severe blooms.