The Harmful Algal Blooms and Hypoxia Research and Control Amendments Act of 2017 - Summer

Team Members: Mallory Rutigliano, Jacob Higdon, Caroline Berman, Stacia Carrington, Zachary Chertok, Luke Cook Griffin, Nicole Haghpanah, Felicia Horwitz, Eva Iveroth, Anna Liebowitz, Evelyn Reis

Harmful algal blooms and hypoxic “dead zones” have increased significantly in frequency and severity across U.S. waters, threatening marine ecosystems, public health, and economic activities such as fisheries and tourism. These events are driven primarily by nutrient pollution from agriculture, urban runoff, and wastewater. The Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control Amendments Act expands federal research, monitoring, and mitigation programs to improve understanding and response capacity.

Scientific analysis emphasizes that nutrient reduction, improved monitoring, and coordinated federal research are essential for reducing bloom frequency and impacts. Nutrient management strategies, including improved agricultural practices and wastewater treatment, address the root causes of blooms. Expanded monitoring improves early warning and mitigation efforts. Strengthening federal coordination improves response efficiency and reduces economic losses. Addressing harmful algal blooms enhances ecosystem health, protects public safety, and improves resilience of aquatic ecosystems under increasing climate pressures.

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