New research proposed by the investigator is intended to assist land managers and homeowners in choosing the best mitigation strategies possible for harmful algal blooms while working within the existing landscape. Misapplication and overuse of chemical algaecide is a concern for the lake managers, the public and the aquatic systems under management. The short and long-term effects of herbicide application for controlling algal blooms are unknown because research and management are not yet collaborative.
This research initiative is intended to build a cooperative link with lake managers to provide guidance for long-term solutions for these eutrophic systems. The ultimate goal of this joint effort between research and management is to improve pond management strategies, educating all stakeholders to the appropriate use of algaecides, with a focus on developing sustainable and stable pond systems. The objectives will be to (1) determine the fate of harmful algae blooming in coastal lagoons with outfalls into adjacent tidal creeks, (2) investigate transfer of pollutants (high nutrients, chlorophyll a, total suspended solids, E. coli and Enterococci) from coastal lagoons into their adjacent tidal creeks, (3) investigate efficacy of existing management strategies on harmful blooms (Biological control: tilapia, carp; Physical control: ultrasonic application; Chemical control: copper algaecides, hydrogen peroxide solutions; Watershed management: vegetated buffers), (4) determine the levels of toxins and pollutants during bloom management in test ponds, analyze toxin levels in water, sediment, fish and mussels exposed to algal blooms, and (5) report results of the research and recommend improved mitigation strategy for algal blooms to various stakeholders.