Evaluating U.S. Drinking Water Sources, HABs Mitigation and Guidance to Optimize Algaecide

Rising populations have increased the need for water while simultaneously negatively impacting the quality of water available. This, in conjunction with extreme and more frequent climate change has made the rapid prediction of population dynamics within an ecosystem essential for the effective harmful algal bloom (HAB) management for drinking water reservoirs. HABs pose a significant health risk to human health and the environment, and not all water treatment plant and watershed personnel have the funds, personnel, or time to complete an in-depth assessment to determine the optimal algaecide application.

This research will develop a guidance document to assist water utilities in optimizing management strategies for algaecide application in their drinking water source(s) to mitigate HABs.