Algae, Algae, Everywhere

Harmful Algal Bloom in the western basin of Lake Erie on September 25, 2017. Photo: Aerial Associates Photography, Inc. by Zachary Haslick, public domain
When: Monday, June 10, 2024. Doors open at 6 p.m. for light refreshments. Lecture begins at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Stroud Water Research Center, 970 Spencer Road, Avondale, PA 19311.
Cost: Free. Please RSVP so we can plan for refreshments.
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Laura Johnson, Ph.D., will explain the causes of harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie, why we need to be concerned about these blooms, and what we should do to prevent exposure to bloom toxins. In addition, we will examine: 
How scientists forecast bloom severity in Lake Erie. 
How activity on land has resulted in changes in the water quality of Lake Erie tributaries that feed these blooms.
What actions are being taken to improve water quality.
What individuals can do to help.
About Laura JohnsonLaura Johnson is director of the National Center for Water Quality Research at Heidelberg University, which is known for its long-term monitoring of streams and rivers throughout the region. Results from this monitoring are used to forecast the algal blooms in Lake Erie, assess the primary sources of nutrient and sediment pollution in Ohio’s watersheds, and track the success of various land management strategies. The center is also monitoring an innovative pilot watershed approach to assess conservation practices in the headwaters of the Blanchard River and a portion of the wetlands in the H2Ohio Wetland Monitoring Program. Under her guidance since 2016, the lab continues to set the gold standard for research in nonpoint source pollution in watersheds.