A NCCOS-funded harmful algal bloom forecasting project is providing key information that one day will help scientists overcome the challenges of HAB forecasting and predict when and where blooms may occur. The prestigious Monterey Bay Research Institute (MBARI), a partner in the research, recently advertised the NCCOS harmful algal bloom forecasting project in a press release. In addition, one of the leading web-based science, research and technology online news services, Phys.org™, has also highlighted the project.

The 5-year project compares HAB initiation and development at two coastal California HAB 'hot spots,' Monterey Bay in Central California and San Pedro Bay in Southern California, each relatively different regarding the importance of upwelling, land use, and runoff. 'A Regional Comparison of Upwelling and Coastal Land Use Patterns on the Development of HAB Hotspots along the California Coast' is a multidisciplinary, multi-institutional effort under the NCCOS Ecology and Oceanography of Harmful Algal Blooms (ECOHAB) program. The project focus is mainly on the HAB diatom Pseudo-nitzschia.

Together, the MBARI press release and Phys.org™ article describe the extensive research background and partnerships leading to the project's success. The project is noteworthy for using new and advanced robotic sampling devices such as Environmental Sample Processors, underwater gliders, and autonomous underwater vehicles. In addition, sub-surface drift samplers, remotely operated vehicles, satellites, and ships are part of the technical armada.

For more information, contact Quay.Dortch@noaa.gov