The S.C. Task Group on Harmful Algae was organized in 1997 as a proactive response to a Pfiesteria outbreak in Maryland. Task group members include state and federal agencies and academic institutions.

The mission of the task group is to discuss, plan, develop, and coordinate the activities of scientists, natural resource managers, communications staff, and extension personnel so that South Carolinians will be prepared in the event of a harmful algae outbreak in the state’s waterways. The role of the S.C. Task Group on Harmful Algae is to establish the steps necessary to prevent Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) from becoming an environmental and public health problem.