Strutton, P. G., Oregon State University, Corvallis, USA, strutton@coas.oregonstate.edu
Wood, A. M., University of Oregon, Eugene, USA, m.michellewood@gmail.com
Tweddle, J. F., Oregon State University, Corvallis, USA,
Cannon, D. ., Oregon Department of Agriculture, Salem, USA,
Hunter, M. ., Oregon Dapartment of Fish and Wildlife, Astoria, USA,
Foley, D. ., NOAA CoastWatch, Pacific Grove, USA,
Scott, B. ., University of Oregon, Eugene, USA,

ADVANCES IN UNDERSTANDING, PREDICTING AND TRACKING OREGON HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOMS

With funding from NOAA’s Oceans and Human Health Initiative, we have been combining satellite and in situ data to further our knowledge of the oceanographic conditions that lead to HABs and their interaction with the Oregon coast. The principal phytoplankton genera of interest are Pseudonitzschia and Alexandrium which can cause domoic acid or saxitoxin accumulation (respectively) in coastal shellfish, primarily razor clams, thus presenting a human health hazard. This presentation will summarize our results thus far. Using historical data on the levels of toxins in shellfish at approximately 20 locations along the Oregon coast, we have identified hot spots of frequent contamination. We have quantified a link between El Niño events and saxitoxin occurrence. Cluster analysis has identified regions of the coast that are subject to shellfish closures at the same time (or not), thus potentially streamlining the process of identifying ‘at risk’ locations. A new satellite product for bloom identification has been developed and disseminated. Satellite analyses have provided insight into the relationship between bloom development, nearshore winds and landfall of toxic blooms.

http://www.coas.oregonstate.ed

Poster presentation

Presentation is given by student: No
Session #:120
Date: 03-03-2008
Time: 17:30 - 19:30