Harmful algal blooms (HABs) now affect most coastal areas of the country, but as the blooms vary from region to region, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The regional structure of IOOS allows each Regional Association (RA) to tailor its approach to the regional capacities, unique environmental conditions, the HAB taxa responsible for blooms, and the needs of stakeholders in the area. IOOS regions work with federal, tribal, state, academic and other partners to identify the observations, forecast models, data management, and communication needed to respond to HABs.
The IOOS Ocean Technology Transfer Project, a competitive grant program designed for emerging technologies, has deployed Environmental Sample Processors and Imaging Flow CytoBots in several regions. These new technologies promise to enhance detection of HABs in near real-time and to provide early warnings of harmful events.
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