The Harmful Algae Bloom Surveillance program is working to gain a better understanding about the occurrence of toxic algae blooms in Oregon and their impact on human health. Funding is through a five-year federal grant from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
We work with a variety of partners to share information, coordinate efforts and communicate with the public. All data regarding harmful algae blooms and human and animal health illnesses are reported to our funding agency, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, where they become part of a national database.
Key program objectives:
- Collect freshwater and marine water algae bloom data that includes bloom frequency, intensity, duration and species composition.
- Collect reports of toxic algae-related human and animal illness and enter these data into the national Harmful Algae Bloom Illness Surveillance System data base.
- Advise the public when a harmful algae bloom has been detected so people can take protective action to avoid illness.
- Develop relationships with partners who are involved in responding to algae blooms.
- Build the capacity of partners to sample water bodies for algae blooms in a scientifically sound manner.
- Identify drinking water systems that may be vulnerable to algae blooms and prioritize them for future prevention and response activities.
- Increase public awareness about harmful algae blooms through outreach and educational activities.
