EPA Awards $681,343 to Ohio State University for Harmful Algae Blooms Research
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has awarded $681,343 to The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, for research on the prediction, prevention, control, and mitigation of freshwater harmful algal blooms.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has awarded $681,343 to The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, for research on the prediction, prevention, control, and mitigation of freshwater harmful algal blooms.
Harmful algae blooms (HABs) are overgrowths of algae and cyanobacteria in water that can product dangerous toxins that hurt local economies and the environment. HABs can have devastating effects on ecosystems, communities, and the health of people, pets, livestock, and wildlife. Recent large-scale HAB events across the country underline the need for further research to improve water quality and protect public health.
Ohio State scientists will use the funding to develop a watershed classification system to diagnose and manage HABs in the upper Ohio River basin by determining characteristics related to distribution, duration, and intensity of HABs.
The grant is awarded through EPA’s Science to Achieve Results program and supports research to better understand the effects from less-common and less studied emerging freshwater harmful algal blooms (HABs) and toxins.
“When harmful algal blooms contaminate drinking water, we see huge impacts on public health, the environment and the economy,” said EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt. “The EPA-funded research announced today will create tools and strategies to support the states in detecting, understanding, and mitigating HABs.”
EPA also awarded $760,000 to Iowa State University for research to control HABs in Iowa’s lakes.