Projects on Algae Tracking and Forecasting

Projects on Algae Tracking and Forecasting

In the REVAMP and HABES projects, tools were developed to detect elevated levels of algae and to predict the evolution of algal blooms. During the GO-demonstration project ISCHA, performed by the IVM, WL | Delft Hydraulics, Water Insight and RIKZ,  the results were combined in a blue-print for a service for a Harmful Algae Bloom early warning bulletin. ISCHA combined observation of algal blooms with the MERIS instrument on the European ENVISAT with in-situ measurements and algae growth models in order to produce timely information in a HAB bulletin. The bulletin provided the actual synoptic chlorophyll-a levels together with a model prediction of the bloom position and intensity up to a week ahead. This blue print was successfully tested for the 2003 Phaeocystis bloom. In the PHATAFS project these activities were embedded in a routine service that was tested the the spring bloom of 2006.