The Florida Harmful Algal Bloom Task Force has published its third consensus document, highlighting progress in addressing red tide challenges. The report focuses on advancements in health, communications, and management since the last recommendations were made in 2021.
Key achievements include enhanced monitoring and detection through tools like Imaging FlowCytobots and satellite sensors. These innovations have improved the ability to detect and forecast red tide blooms. Communication efforts have also been strengthened with multilingual educational materials, public awareness campaigns, and a video series available in English and Spanish covering topics such as seafood safety during a red tide.
Research initiatives are underway with over 25 projects funded by the FWC Center for Red Tide Research and HAB Grant Program. These projects focus on economic and oceanographic forecasting, shellfish depuration techniques, and advanced modeling to predict bloom dynamics.
"Red tide presents unique challenges to Florida's ecosystems, communities, and economy," said Dr. Katherine Hubbard of FWC, Chair of the Florida HAB Task Force. "This new document showcases the remarkable progress made and underscores the importance of continued collaboration and innovation to mitigate its impacts."
The Task Force plans to prioritize expanding research, enhancing monitoring and detection capabilities, and fostering partnerships across the state. Future initiatives include a State of the Science symposium and developing new diagnostic tools for human and animal health.
For further details or to access the full consensus document, visit MyFWC.com/HABTaskForce under the “Products” tab.