In a significant step toward addressing the growing threat of Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs), AquaRealTime Inc. has been awarded a $174,974 grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This funding will drive the expansion of AquaRealTime’s cutting-edge AlgaeTracker technology, which is designed to enhance environmental monitoring through fluorescence-based detection.
The project’s core goal is to develop an advanced multispectral buoy that can detect HABs by discriminating between different algal classes. This new buoy will be particularly valuable as it will be operational in both inland waters and coastal regions that lack cellular connectivity—an essential feature for real-time monitoring in remote locations.
NOAA’s support for this initiative reflects the agency’s dedication to tackling the pervasive issue of HABs, which pose serious risks to both environmental and human health. Harmful algal blooms can release toxins that impact marine ecosystems, local economies, and public health, making early detection and management critical.
Carl Gouldman, director of the U.S. Integrated Ocean Observing System Office, emphasized the importance of this work :"Harmful algal blooms and hypoxia affect coastal and inland waters and can be devastating to communities and businesses. These awards are part of NOAA's ongoing commitment to advance our abilities to forecast, manage, and mitigate the effects of these events nationwide."
By enhancing the AlgaeTracker system, AquaRealTime’s new development will strengthen the nation's HAB response capabilities, enabling more proactive interventions and protecting vulnerable water bodies and communities.
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