Blue Green Algae Monitoring
Howard Jones (AAT chair) attended the Blue Green Algae Monitoring Project meeting coordinated by Joshua Glen NRM South
Blue Green Algae Monitoring Project – Meeting Summary
Date: Wednesday 1st April
Subject: Assessment of Satellite Remote Sensing for Algal Bloom Monitoring
Attendees: Water managers from NRE, Hydro Tas, IFS, Tas Water, EPA, CSIRO, Derwent Estuary Project, Tasmanian Health, Tas Irrigation, Dairy Tas, Huon Aquaculture, NRM North/South and Anglers Alliance Tasmania,
Main Points & Key Outcomes
This session focused on exploring advanced technological solutions for monitoring Blue Green Algae blooms and identifying opportunities for improved regional data coordination.
1. Advancements in Monitoring Technology (Cyanolakes Presentation Mark Matthews):
A detailed presentation showcased the capabilities of satellite remote sensing for
detecting and mapping algal blooms across water bodies, using Woods Lake bloom
monitoring as a key example.
The technology demonstrates high correlation between satellite data and physical, on- site sampling, providing robust verification.
The system’s advanced features include:
· Differentiating between various types of algae (specifically identifying Blue Green
Algae).
· Providing alerts and forecasts regarding potential toxic blooms.
· Measuring turbidity levels.
A subscription-based “dashboard” model is available, offering water managers
comprehensive imagery, real-time alerts, and predictive analytics for target water
bodies.
2. High Interest in Data Coordination:
The diverse attendance from multiple regulatory bodies (EPA, Tas Water, Health, etc. 27 in all.)
highlighted a strong consensus and high interest across the sector regarding the need for coordinating and sharing data to manage water quality effectively.
3. Stakeholder Communication Needs (Angler Representation):
Howard Jones AAT, representing Anglers/recreational users, emphasized that effective public communication is critical. The community needs simple, clear information resources.
The group requires accessible fact/advice sheets for recreational users covering:
· General risks associated with blooms.
· Recommended safety actions (what to do).
· Guidance on how to identify and report blooms.
4. Operational Challenge Identified:
A general concern raised among attendees was the need to secure ongoing funding for the successful continuation and scale-up of these critical monitoring projects.
AAT hopes informed anglers can contribute to improved regional monitoring and address the goal of “improved regional data coordination.