Algae are an important part of a properly functioning natural aquatic system, but when algae become abundant, water uses and habitat are often impaired. Abundance of cyanobacteria and possible related toxicity has become a “hot button” issue, and other water quality implications and aesthetic considerations remain prominent issues. All algae are not created equal, however, and proper collection and identification are essential to selecting a management strategy. This workshop is intended to provide information on how to collect and recognize common genera within major groups of algae, understanding which algae tend to form blooms and why, what toxins can be formed and the risks they pose, and how to control algae to maximize waterbody compliance with state and federal regulations. The workshop touches on material that could be the subject of a semester course in a single day, so we can only introduce participants to methods, taxonomy, toxicity, ecology and control options, but additional resources will be provided to help participants advance their understanding. We spend a substantial amount of time looking at specimens under the microscope including a projection system that allows participants to see what we see when we analyze samples and get a feel for the identification process.
Presenters The workshop is taught by Dr. Ken Wagner of WRS Inc., Dr. Barry Rosen of Florida Gulf Coast University, Mr. Andrew Chapman of Greenwater Labs in Florida and Mr. Kam Truhn of PhycoTech, experienced algal taxonomists and ecologists working in applied fields. Collectively they have many years of experience assessing algal problems, evaluating impacts and causes of algal nuisances, and developing algal management programs.
The workshop is taught by Dr. Ken Wagner of WRS Inc., Dr. Barry Rosen of Florida Gulf Coast University, Mr. Andrew Chapman of Greenwater Labs in Florida and Mr. Kam Truhn of PhycoTech, experienced algal taxonomists and ecologists working in applied fields. Collectively they have many years of experience assessing algal problems, evaluating impacts and causes of algal nuisances, and developing algal management programs.