Optimizing HAB Management in Lake Mattamuskeet: Insights from Baseline Monitoring and Multi-Dimensional Data Integration

Lake Mattamuskeet is the largest natural lake in North Carolina at 40,000 acres. It plays a vital role in serving as habitat for various migratory bird species. The lake is currently facing challenges related to high turbidity, which is exacerbated by HABs, and adversely impacts sub-aquatic vegetation. BlueGreen Water Technologies collaborated with the University of North Carolina Institute of Marine Sciences to conduct a yearlong monitoring study ahead of gaging the efficacy of a mitigation treatment. Goals were: (1) Establish effective scientific based management practices drawn from multi-dimensional data integration, (2) Understand function and limitations of: Water Sensors, S3 satellite analysis, and pigment extraction, and (3) Gain insight into algal bloom dynamics. Results revealed seasonal succession of algal populations with three distinct blooming periods in Spring, Summer, and Autumn. While Cyanobacteria are present throughout the year, the extent varies depending on seasonal driving forces such as temperature and competition. Spring blooms showed higher diversity, while summer blooms showed a significant dominance of Cyanobacteria. These results are critical for understanding and managing HABs, especially in determining when and when not to treat. Targeting the right bloom at the right time may increase the effectiveness of a mitigation treatment and improve diversity and overall health, while treating at the wrong time may have deleterious effects and long-term consequences.

Primary Presenter: Gabriel Rozman, BlueGreen Water Technologies (grozman@bluegreenwatertech.com)

Authors:

Gabriel Rozman, BlueGreen Water Technologies  (grozman@bluegreenwatertech.com)

Jessica Frost, BlueGreen Water US Technologies  (jessica.frost@bluegreenwatertech.com)

Nathan Hall, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill Institute of Marine Sciences  (nshall@email.unc.edu)

Gad Raz, BlueGreen Water Technologies  (graz@bluegreenwatertech.com)

Hans Paerl, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill Institute of Marine Sciences  (hans_paerl@unc.edu)

Moshe Harel, BlueGreen Water Technologies  (moshe@bluegreenwatertech.com)