Building a framework for an integrated HAB detection and monitoring system in San Francisco Estuary

Over the last decade, harmful algal blooms (HABs) have emerged as one of the highest-priority water quality management issues in the San Francisco Estuary, which includes the San Francisco Bay (Bay) and Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta (Delta). Although major HAB events in the Bay have historically been rare, recent studies have determined that multiple HAB species and their toxins are frequently detected, highlighting the potential for major HAB risks.

New $3 million grant to support harmful algae monitoring in the San Francisco Estuary

NOAA recently announced that it is awarding a $3-million grant, through its Monitoring and Event Response Research Program (MERHAB) to support the development of a harmful algal bloom (HAB) monitoring program for the San Francisco Estuary. The project, led by scientists at the San Francisco Estuary Institute (SFEI), US Geological Survey, and California Department of Water Resources (DWR), will leverage on-going research and monitoring activities in the Bay and Delta to build a robust system-wide HAB monitoring program for the Estuary.

Nature Based Solutions for Nutrient Removal

High nutrient concentrations can cause increased phytoplankton biomass, low dissolved oxygen, and increased harmful algal blooms and toxins, with detrimental effects on species and ecosystems. San Francisco Bay receives high nutrient loads mainly from discharged wastewater, but high turbidity, strong tidal mixing, and abundant filter-feeding clams have kept algal blooms in check. Following the historic algal bloom of 2022, regulators and managers recognize the Bay’s resilience to high nutrient loading is waning and nitrogen concentrations must be managed more proactively. 

Harmful Algal Bloom and Fish Mortality San Francisco Bay

San Francisco Bay has been experiencing a major harmful algae bloom (HAB) event. Early signs of the developing bloom were reported in late July 2022 within the Oakland Estuary (between Alameda and Oakland). By early August, the bloom had spread to South Bay west of Alameda, and by mid-August expanded over large swaths of South Bay. Recent observations suggest the bloom may also be reaching into regions of Central and San Pablo Bays. 

Nutrients in San Francisco Bay

San Francisco Bay Nutrient Management Strategy

San Francisco Bay, among the world's most nutrient-rich estuaries, faces elevated risk from high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus. This abundance of nutrients can negatively affect water quality and habitat health, fueling excessive growth of algae or phytoplankton in a process known as eutrophication. The repercussions can be severe, leading to depleted oxygen levels, which stress aquatic life, and the emergence of toxic algae.

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