The goals of this MERHAB program are:

1. To establish (and link to satellite image analysis) a fine-scale in-situ sensor network for monitoring the spatiotemporal distribution of algal blooms in coastal waters of southern California.

2. To use that network to facilitate cost effective sampling of blooms and potential HAB events.

3. To implement state-of-the-art technology for quantifying Pseudo-nitzschia species and domoic acid concentrations in water, plankton and tissue samples from coastal locations off southern California. 

These goals will be accomplished through ‘working partnerships’ of scientists within the HAB research community and agencies charged with monitoring water quality.  The sensor network will provide within-network data collection, communication, processing and sensor-actuated sampling.  The network will also allow real-time data visualization, enabling rapid response (sampling, policy decisions) to emerging events.  The partnerships will also facilitate the transfer of cutting edge technology from academia into the hands of end-users directly involved with monitoring coastal ecosystems and responding to water quality issues.