Special Event – Understanding Harmful Algal Blooms: Causes, Impacts, and Ongoing Research

Please join Dr. Mindy Richlen from WHOI April 28th at 12 noon on Zoom.    Please contact the office to register.   lifelonglearning@capecod.edu

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are an increasing concern in freshwater and coastal
ecosystems, affecting water quality, public health, fisheries, and local economies. This
talk will provide a broad overview of HABs and their causes, how they impact the
environment and human communities, and what can be done to prevent and mitigate
their effects. The presentation concludes with a discussion of ongoing research
conducted through the Woods Hole Center for Oceans and Human Health program,
highlighting current efforts to better understand these blooms and their far-reaching
impacts in New England.

Dr. Mindy Richlen is a Senior Research Specialist at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
(WHOI), specializing in harmful algal blooms, or HABs. As Project Lead for the Woods Hole
Center for Oceans and Human Health Community Engagement Core, she fosters collaboration
with stakeholders and public health communities to advance HAB research and response
efforts. She is also dedicated to community and classroom outreach, having developed K-12
activities that bring HABs research into classrooms. With extensive experience in planning,
conducting, and publishing HAB research, she is skilled in translating scientific findings and
engaging diverse audiences in Oceans and Human Health research.