Community science and satellite data are powering the future of harmful algal bloom forecasting.
Over the span of 5 years, NCCOS and partners are expanding the HAB observing network system and testing a new experimental HAB forecast for the Chesapeake Bay, giving stakeholders early insight into potential bloom conditions.
To strengthen monitoring and forecasting in this area, scientists are:
-Developing ecological models to better understand when and where blooms form and fade Integrating real-time satellite imagery and species-specific models, and
-Collaborating with communities to test various means for collecting cell data including Planktoscope, filling in key gaps in monitoring across the Bay.
This will lead to observing and forecasting capabilities in the Bay that gives aquaculture operators, state agencies, and public health officials the lead time they need to prepare for blooms.
This pilot project is a part of a larger network of regional HAB observing and forecasting programs being supported by NOAA.
These tools, once refined, could be adapted for other coastal regions facing similar HAB threats.