Cyanobacteria Updates

In the October/November issue of this newsletter we announced new features on the NALMS Inland HABs Program Webpage, including an interactive Story Map featuring cyanobacteria resources. These resources are maintained by Shane Bradt and Angela Shambaugh, co-chairs of our HABs Committee.

Angela Shambaugh is also co-leader of a study focused on harmful cyanobacteria blooms by a national team sponsored by the Interstate Technology and Regulatory Council (ITRC). Angela reports, “The final product will include sections on nutrient management, monitoring, in-lake management approaches, and communication strategies. Team membership is open now and NALMS members might find it of interest.” ITRC works closely with EPA, NOAA, USACE and other federal partners while developing these products. The cyanobacteria team will finalize their product over the next year, with public release and training opportunities scheduled for early 2021.

In the interim, NALMS is in conversation with partner organizations such as the Aquatic Plant Management Society and members of the Consortium of Aquatic Science Societies regarding cyanobacteria-related initiatives leading up to the Joint Aquatic Sciences Meeting 2022 (May 18–22 in Grand Rapids, Michigan). We also note that UNESCO has released a relevant e-publication: M.A. Burford et al. 2019. Solutions for managing cyanobacterial blooms: A scientific summary for policy makers. IOC/UNESCO, Paris (IOC/INF-1382).