Posts by Mindy Richlen

In 2025, record-breaking levels of Sargassum drifted through the tropical Atlantic, heavily impacting Puerto Rico’s coastlines. In response, Governor Pedro Pierluisi declared a state of emergency on June 30, 2025. To support these efforts, the National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS) Harmful Algal Bloom Event Response Program is funding expanded Sargassum response activities. Led by Mar Caribe Consulting LLC in partnership with the Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources and the Puerto Rico Coastal Zone Management Program, the project will enhance monitoring at six coastal sites. Read the full news release to learn more about this ongoing response effort.

Abstract submissions are now open for the 13th U.S. Symposium on Harmful Algae (US-HABs 2026), to be held October 25–29, 2026 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Researchers, students, and professionals working on all aspects of harmful algal blooms are invited to submit abstracts for oral or poster presentations.

Abstract deadline: May 8, 2026

Submit your abstract and view submission guidelines HERE.

The U.S. National Office for Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) has released a comprehensive national science strategy outlining a decade-long roadmap aimed at enhancing our understanding, monitoring, and management of HABs. “HARRNESS 2024-2034: Harmful Algal Research and Response, A National Environmental Science Strategy” defines the magnitude, scope, and diversity of the HAB problem in United States’ marine, brackish and freshwaters; addresses knowledge gaps; strengthens coordination among agencies, stakeholders, and partners; advances the development of effective research and management solutions; and builds resilience to address the broad range of HAB impacts to vulnerable communities and ecosystems in the USA.

Thank you for attending the 21st International Conference on Harmful Algae (ICHA) ! The final scientific program is available HERE.