Understanding Algal Blooms: State of the Science Conference Highlights Current Research And Management Practices

Toledo, OH – The 2019 Understanding Algal Blooms: State of the Science Conference, held on September 12 at the Stranahan Center in Toledo, Ohio, will highlight current scientific knowledge about algal blooms, their causes, and best management practices to prevent blooms. Stakeholders from the region, including researchers, state and federal agency personnel and the agricultural community, are encouraged to attend.

Conference registration is $40 ($10 for students) and closes September 6. A full agenda, registration link and directions to the event location are available online at go.osu.edu/stateofthescience.

The conference is also approved as professional development for 5.25 contact hours from the Ohio EPA.

“This event highlights the importance of continued research into Lake Erie’s harmful algal bloom problem, especially combined with NOAA’s forecast of a severe bloom for the 2019 season,” said Dr. Kristen Fussell, Ohio Sea Grant’s assistant director for administration and research. “The State of the Science conference is a great way to learn more about what Ohio researchers are doing, and how they’re working together with state and local agencies to help keep Lake Erie safe for residents and visitors.”

Research and outreach leaders from regional agencies and institutions will present recent studies on harmful algal blooms and identify important areas for future research. Specific topics will include collaborations and partnerships critical for improving water quality, priorities and policies of Ohio agencies for harmful algal blooms, monitoring and tracking nutrient inputs within the watershed, the latest in edge-of-field research and best management practices.

Audience members will also be able to submit questions for a panel of agency directors at the registration table throughout the morning sessions. Invited representatives include the Ohio Department of Agriculture, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and the Ohio Lake Erie Commission.

A poster session during the lunch break will highlight additional research projects on topics related to harmful algal blooms.

The Understanding Algal Blooms: State of the Science Conference is hosted by Ohio Sea Grant, The Ohio State University’s College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, OSU Extension and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service.

The Ohio State University’s Ohio Sea Grant College Program is part of NOAA Sea Grant, a network of 34 Sea Grant programs dedicated to the protection and sustainable use of marine and Great Lakes resources. For more information, visit ohioseagrant.osu.edu.