Join Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies for a hybrid event on harmful algal blooms, with a special focus on blooms in flowing waters like the Hudson River. The event will feature speakers from the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), the Department of Health (DOH), Cary Institute, and Riverkeeper.
Last summer, Cary researchers encountered an unprecedented harmful algal bloom in the Hudson River while conducting long-term monitoring of the river's food web. It was the largest bloom observed during nearly 40 years of Cary’s monitoring and was identified as Microcystis, a type of cyanobacteria that can produce toxins harmful to people, pets, and wildlife. Building on this discovery, Cary scientists are working with Riverkeeper to develop new monitoring methods and improve our understanding of how to predict and manage future blooms.
The event will provide an overview of harmful algal blooms, including what they look like in flowing waterways, the potential risks posed by toxin-producing blooms, and current research underway to improve their detection and management. Participants will also learn how to report a bloom in any body of water and ways to support healthy aquatic ecosystems.
Speakers will include:
Brian Duffy, Chief, Division of Water Monitoring and Assessment, DEC
Gena Gallinger, Director of Outreach and Education, DOH
Chris Solomon, Aquatic Ecologist, Cary Institute
Dan Shapley, Senior Director of Advocacy, Policy and Planning, Riverkeeper
Registrants are encouraged to submit questions in advance. The event will include a series of presentations followed by a moderated Q&A session. It is free and open to all.
Support for this lecture has been provided in part by Harney & Sons Fine Tea.
