WARNING

Remote sensing helps water quality managers detect harmful algal blooms

The rapid bloom of tiny freshwater microorganisms, called cyanobacteria, sometimes releases toxins that are harmful to aquatic life and can contaminate drinking water. These harmful algal blooms (HABs) pose a significant threat to public health and safety, ecosystems, freshwater resources and recreation.

Molly Reif Research Geographer U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center

Sentinel-2 satellite image (bands 4,3,2) for July 8, 2021

A collaborative R&D effort between USACE and other federal, state and academic partners has developed methods to use remotely sensed satellite imagery to provide an early warning about the possible presence of HABs, giving USACE water quality managers the tools they need to remain ahead of the challenge.

Built on research that began in 2012, these software tools have varying capabilities to meet a wide range of early detection and monitoring needs. They include the ability to create abundance maps of HAB indicators, as well as a web application that rapidly screens for potential HAB conditions in five easy steps.

Connecting The Dots

Between 2010 and 2020

HABs cost U.S. communities

Normalized Difference Chlorophyll Index (NDCI) for July 8, 2021

To read the full story, visit: https://www.usace.army.mil/Media/News/ NewsSearch/Article/3277031/remote-sensing-givesusace-an-edge-at-detecting-harmful-algal-blooms/

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