ABSTRACTS AND BIOGRAPHIES FOR PRESENTATIONS AT THE ANNUAL VIRTUAL CONFERENCE OF THE - 11-13 JANUARY 2022 VIRTUAL CONFERENCE
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ABSTRACTS AND BIOGRAPHIES FOR PRESENTATIONS
AT THE
23rd ANNUAL VIRTUAL CONFERENCE
OF THE
11-13 JANUARY 2022
VIRTUAL CONFERENCE
Abstracts and biographies are listed in order of presentation at the conferenceNEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
Tuesday, January 11, 2022
Opening Session/Keynote (Moderator: Greg Bugbee, Connecticut Agricultural Field Station)
8:30-8:45 AM Welcome and Opening Remarks Greg Bugbee, NEAPMS President
8:45-9:15 AM Keynote: Updates to A Manual of Aquatic and Wetland Plants of Northeastern C. Barre Hellquist, Ph.D. Page 6
North America
Harmful Algal Blooms
(Moderator: Erin Vennie-Vollrath, New York Department of Environmental Conservation)
9:15-9:45 AM The Use of an Autonomous Field-deployed Vacuum Pump Air Sampling RJ Turcotte Page 7
Device (ASD) to Trap Airborne anatoxin-A (ATX) in the Form of Aerosolized
Particles and/or Picocyanobacteria Containing ATX.
9:45-10:15 AM Recent Chemical Management of Lyngbya on Lake Gaston Erika Haug, Ph.D. Page 8
10:15-10:30 AM BREAK
Nutrient Loading
(Moderator: Heather Desko, New Jersey Water Supply Authority)
10:30-11:00 AM Investigation of Novel Technologies for Nutrient Interception in Aquatic West Bishop, Ph.D. Page 9
Systems
11:00-11:30 AM Control of Internal Phosphorus Loading in Lakes Ken Wagner, Ph.D. Page 10
Aquatic Invasive Plants and Algae
(Moderator: Meg Modley, Lake Champlain Basin Program)
11:30-12:00 PM Hydrilla in the Connecticut River – The Management Conundrum Greg Bugbee Page 11
12:00-12:30 PM Molecular survey for a recently introduced genotype of hydrilla (Hydrilla Dean Williams, Ph.D. Page 12
verticillata L.f. Royle) in the United States
12:30-1:00 PM A Summary of Nitelopsis obtusa (starry stonewort) Management and David Carr Page 13
Control Practices
Wednesday, January 12, 2022
Welcome to Gather.Town (Host: Chris Doyle, Naiad Consultants)
12:30-1:00 PM Welcome to Gather.Town Chris Doyle
2NEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
Aquatic Pesticide Safety Training (Moderator: Josh Burnside, Black Lagoon Pond and Lake Management)
1:00-2:00 PM Aquatic Pesticide Safety Training Carlton Layne, AERF Page 14
Exhibitor/Sponsor Reception (Moderator: Glenn Sullivan, SOLitude Lake Management)
2:00-3:00 PM Visit our Exhibitors and Sponsors in our Virtual Exhibitor Room Various Presenters
Scientific Poster Session (Moderator: Chris Doyle, Naiad Consultants)
3:00-4:00 PM Scientific Poster Slam Session Various Presenters
Student/Early Career Panel (Moderator: Kyle Clonan)
4:00-5:00 PM Student/Early Career Panel Discussion with Special Industry Guests Kyle Clonan Page 15
5:00PM to? Social Gathering
Thursday, January 13, 2022
Opening Session/ Keynote (Moderator: Cathy McGlynn, New York State Department of Environmental
Conservation)
8:30-8:45 AM Opening Remarks and Welcome Cathy McGlynn, Incoming
NEAPMS President
8:45-9:15 AM Eagle Killer, Living on hydrilla: Investigating the Combined Risk of Invasive Susan Wilde, Ph.D. Page 16
Submerged Plants and Toxic Epiphytic Cyanobacteria
NEAPMS Scholarship Recipient’s Updates (Moderator: Emily Mayer, Raritan Headwaters Association)
9:15-9:45 AM Detection of Hydrilla verticillata eDNA in a Lotic System Dan Weber, SUNY Albany Page 17
9:45-10:15 AM Gaging Downstream Transport of Cyanobacteria and Cyanotoxins through Kyle Clonan, Montclair State Page 18
Continuous Monitoring and Discrete Sampling University/ NJ WSA
10:15-10:30 AM BREAK
10:30-11:00 AM INDUSTRY UPDATES (Moderated by Chris Hanlon-Lake Man. Sciences)
10:30-11:00 AM NEAPMS BUSINESS MEETING
Aquatic Plant Management (Moderator: Greg Bugbee, Connecticut Agricultural Field Station)
11:00-11:30 AM Efficacy of Clearcast and ProcellaCOR EC on European Frogbit Bin Zhu, Ph.D. Page 19
3NEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
11:30-12:00 PM Overview of Recent Aquatic Plant Monitoring and Management Activities at Kara Foley Page 20
Chautauqua Lake, New York
12:00-12:30 PM Forty-years of Water Chestnut Management on Lake Champlain Kimberly Jensen Page 21
12:35 PM SCHOLARSHIP RAFFLE
MEETING ADJOURNED
4NEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
Scientific Poster Session
Student Monitoring Monoecious Hydrilla in Flowing Water Systems of North Carolina Jens Beets, North Carolina State Page 22
University
Student Potential Exposure to Cyanotoxins in Splash While Recreating During Cole Beale, SUNY Oneonta Page 23
Cyanobacterial Harmful Algal Blooms
Student Analysis of Genetic Variation between invasive Myriophyllum heterophyllum Jack Andrews, SUNY Albany Page 24
and native Myriophyllum heterophyllum populations in New York State
Student Applying Publicly Available Satellite Imagery to Assess Harmful T. David Hsu, Montclair State Page 25
Cyanobacterial Blooms at a Recreational Lake in New Jersey / New York University
Student Competitive Interactions Between Two Highly Aggressive Invasive Species Ashley Morris, State University of Page 26
(Hydrilla verticillata and Myriophyllum spicatum) in a Kettle Lake System. New York at Stony Brook
Professional Enhancing Our Waters through Small Scale Initiatives (Restoring Critical Brittney Rogers, SLELO-PRISM Page 27
Corridors within the Algonquin to Adirondacks Bioregion)
Professional A Gap Year in Hydrilla Treatment & Bounce Back at a NJ Drinking Water Kyle Clonan, New Jersey Water Page 28
Reservoir Supply Authority
Professional Comparing Secchi Disk Depths With and Without a View Scope in Kendra Kilson, Northeast Aquatic Page 29
Northeastern Lakes Research, LLC.
Student Assessment of Digital Flow Cytometry in its Application of Harmful Algal Melissa Mazzaro, Montclair State Page 30
Blooms Monitoring University
Professional New York State Launches Effort to Control Floating Water Primrose and Nicole White, CLM, New York Page 31
European Frogbit in the Peconic River, Suffolk County State Department of
Environmental Conservation
Student Autonomous Biomimetic Underwater Robots for Monitoring and Rapid Sidharth Annapragada Page 32
Response to Environmental Hazards
5NEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
Keynote: Updates to A Manual of Aquatic and Wetland Plants of Northeastern North America
C. Barre Hellquist, Ph.D., Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts
Abstract: Dr. Garrett Crow and I have just submitted the final manuscript for a completely new edition of “A Manual of Aquatic and Wetland Plants
of Northeastern North America”. The new edition will be a single volume with 633 labelled illustrated line-drawing plates covering 88% of the
total taxa. This volume as with the present volumes will utilize vegetative features to help with identification. The changes brought about through
DNA analysis now has many taxa being assigned to different families and many with new nomenclatural changes. We have also included new
species and distributional range additions within the range of the publication. This new volume should be of particular importance to both those
working in the aquatic and wetland habitats. This presentation will include photos of some new plates and a discussion of parts of the book
relevant to aquatic resource managers in the Northeast.
Speaker Biography: Dr. C. Barre Hellquist (c.barre.hellquist@mcla.mass.edu) is Professor Emeritus of biology at Massachusetts College of Liberal
Arts and is co-author of the Aquatic Plants of New England series and the two volume Aquatic and Wetland Plants of Northeastern North America.
He has co-authored portions of the Flora of North America (Nuphar and Alismatidae), the Alismatidae for the Flora of China, the Jepson Manual
of California, and the aquatics for the flora of the San Juan River Basin (four corners region of western U.S.). Presently he is studying the systematics
of Australian Nymphaea and conducting field studies with his son, Dr. C. Eric Hellquist (SUNY-Oswego) on the aquatic flora of Yellowstone and
Grand Teton National Parks. He has taught courses on aquatic plants at the University of Michigan and the University of Oklahoma Biological
Stations and Eagle Hill Institute, Steuben, Maine.
6NEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
The Use of an Autonomous Field-deployed Vacuum Pump Air Sampling Device (ASD) to Trap Airborne anatoxin-A (ATX) in the
Form of Aerosolized Particles and/or Picocyanobacteria Containing ATX.
RJ Turcotte Nantucket Land Council
James Sutherland
Emily Molden
Vince Moriarty
Michael Kelly
Mark Aubel
Amanda Foss
Abstract: Cyanobacteria in high densities can exert negative physical, chemical and biological changes in aquatic ecosystems. Certain genera produce secondary
metabolites called cyanotoxins, which can be associated with harmful algal blooms (HABs) including the neurotoxic alkaloid, anatoxin-a (ATX). In this study, we
demonstrated the ability of an autonomous field-deployed vacuum pump air sampling device (ASD) to trap airborne ATX in the form of aerosolized particles
and/or picocyanobacteria containing ATX. The ASD also captured the hepatotoxic peptide, microcystin (MC). Two ASDs were deployed along the shoreline of
Capaum Pond (Nantucket Island, MA) on five separate occasions during a prolonged 57-day HAB in 2019. ATX concentrations measured in the pond during this
period ranged from 0.13 to 21.0 ng/mL and averaged 5.68 ng/mL. The two ASDs were deployed along the pond shoreline prior to forecast storm events between
5 September and 6 October, with downwind placement determined by the forecast wind direction for the particular event being monitored. Each ASD contained
a glass fiber filter to trap airborne particles and ATX was detected on duplicate filters during an event that occurred during 11 to 12 September. This event had
the highest wind velocity (~30km/h), was followed by fog, and filters from both ASDs contained ATX (average concentration = 0.87 ng/mL). This study is the first
to report ATX collected outside an aquatic ecosystem. These findings indicate that emission of ATX molecules, or cyanobacteria containing ATX, from waters
experiencing HABs present a potential human health exposure not previously examined.
Biography: RJ Turcotte is the Nantucket Land Council’s Ecologist and Nantucket Waterkeeper. He runs the organization’s education and research programs and
works with the Executive Director on advocacy issues. RJ earned a bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology at the University of Rhode Island. His experience includes
water quality monitoring and habitat restoration projects in southern New England. When not in the field, he is an avid outdoorsman hiking and canoeing
throughout the Northeast and lower forty-eight.
7NEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
Recent Chemical Management of Lyngbya on Lake Gaston
Erika Haug, Ph.D. North Carolina State University
Jessica Baumann North Carolina State University
Emily Vulgamore North Carolina State University
Rob Richardson, Ph.D. North Carolina State University
Abstract: Lake Gaston is an 8,200-ha hydroelectric reservoir, located in the Roanoke River system on the border between Virginia and North Carolina. Aquatic
plant management on the lake has been active since the late 1980’s. Historically, management has focused on chemical and biological control of Egeria densa
and monoecious Hydrilla verticillata. In more recent years a native filamentous cyanobacterium, Lyngbya (Microseira wollei), has become increasingly
problematic on the lake. Lyngbya forms persistent thick black mats along the benthos that rise to the surface in the summer months. In addition to the
recreational and ecological impacts of Lyngbya mats, most strains of Lyngbya produce taste and odor compounds, such as geosmin, and some strains are capable
of producing cyanotoxins. From 2019 through 2021, in-lake management of Lyngbya consisted of a series of chemical trials utilizing multiple algaecide
formulations and application techniques. Results and implications for management of these experiments as well as water quality data and laboratory experiments
will be discussed.
Speaker Biography:
Erika completed a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology at McGill University in Montreal, QC. She has worked in the public, private, non-profit and academic
sectors of aquatic plant management. Erika completed her PhD in Fisheries, Wildlife and Conservation Biology at North Carolina State University under the
direction of Dr. Robert Richardson in May of 2018. She currently works as a Research Scholar at NCSU with a focus on invasive aquatic plant management.
8NEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
Investigation of Novel Technologies for Nutrient Interception in Aquatic Systems
West Bishop, Ph.D. SePro Corporation
Abstract:
Urban and agricultural runoff can contribute substantial nutrient inputs to aquatic systems. While watershed management techniques are
important, they may have limitations on volumes able to be treated, and time/cost for implementation. This presentation provides an overview
of a novel phosphorus filtering technology, which is designed for use in flowing waters and may serve as an effective complement to limit nutrient
input from runoff. Information regarding the capacity and timing of binding, as well as expected results in field treatments will be covered. This
technology can remove more than 10 mg of phosphorus per gram of material (> 1%) which allows small filter bags to treat large volumes of water
or waters with high phosphorus concentrations. Since nutrients are a key driver of eutrophication in freshwater systems, and as inflow or
“recharge” of nutrients is a key factor limiting longevity of in-lake controls, intercepting nutrients in these inflows fits a critical need in water
resource management.
Speaker Biography:
Dr. West Bishop is the Algae Scientist and Water Quality Research Manager at SePRO, a position he has held for over 10 years. Dr. Bishop has
presented at many conferences and published numerous articles in peer-reviewed and other literature and is a certified lake professional through
NALMS. Dr. Bishop current focus includes inventing, developing and implementing numerous proactive and reactive solutions to improve water
quality and control nuisance cyanobacteria. He collaboratively works to solve large-scale algal issues across the country. He is also the Host of
Algae Corner, an informational video series on all things algae with over 50,000 cumulative views.
9NEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
Control of Internal Phosphorus Loading in Lakes
Ken Wagner, Ph.D. Water Resource Services
Abstract:
While the watershed is the origin of most phosphorus (P) in lakes, recycling within the lake can be a dominant force that must be addressed to
prevent algal blooms. Internal P loading mechanisms include resuspension of sediment by wind, fish or boats, pumping by rooted plants, processing
by benthic invertebrates, oxic decay, and release of P from surficial sediment under low oxygen conditions, with this last mechanism most often
dominant. Internal P loading from anoxic sediment is often implicated in cyanobacteria blooms. Controls include removing sediment, removing P-
rich water, oxygenating the water near the sediment, and inactivating P to limit availability. Dredging, selective withdrawal, circulation,
oxygenation, and treatment with aluminum, calcium or lanthanum have all been applied. Each approach has substantial data needs for planning,
can be expensive, and has yielded varying results, but success can be achieved with proper implementation.
Speaker Biographies:
Dr. Ken Wagner holds degrees from Dartmouth College and Cornell University, with his Ph.D. earned in Natural Resource Management in 1985.
He has 40 years of experience working on a variety of water resources assessment and management projects, focusing mainly on lakes. In 2010
he started Water Resource Services, a small company with a focus on water supply protection and lake management consulting. He is a former
President of the North American Lake Management Society and Editor in Chief of Lake and Reservoir Management, a peer-reviewed journal. He is
a member of APMS and a former director of NEAPMS.
10NEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
Hydrilla in the Connecticut River – The Management Conundrum
Greg Bugbee Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station
Abstract:
Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) is now the predominate aquatic plant in over 60 miles of the Connecticut River from southern Massachusetts to the
Connecticut coast. Recent Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Surveys documented approximately 1000 acres of the plant with many coves,
tributaries, and marinas nearly completely choked. Native eelgrass (Valisneria americana) beds are being replaced. In the River’s mainstem, the
hydrilla mainly occurs along the shore and on shoals where the water is less than six feet deep. Often it is exposed during low tide. The genetics
and phenology of the CT River hydrilla is distinct from any previously documented. Genetically it is different but most like hydrilla found in Europe,
Japan and Korea. In addition to being far more robust than hydrilla found nearby, the CT River hydrilla does not produce tubers and appears to
overwinter and spread solely by turions and fragments. This, in addition to high river flow rates, tidal action, suspended sediment, numerous state-
listed species, high costs, and many stakeholders will complicate management decisions. This talk will examine the pros, cons, feasibilities, and
costs of management options including spread prevention, harvesting, herbicides, grass carp/biocontrol, benthic barriers, and doing nothing.
Audience participation will be encouraged.
Speaker Biography:
Greg Bugbee is an Associate Scientist at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station in the Department of Environmental Sciences, where his
career has spanned over 40 years. He is the principal investigator in the Invasive Aquatic Plant Program and directs the Station’s soil testing
laboratory. He has led aquatic plant surveys of nearly 400 Connecticut lakes and ponds and has directed research projects on invasive aquatic
plant control statewide. He is the current President of the Northeast Aquatic Plant Management Society and has numerous popular and scientific
publications. He is the recipient of the 2015 Journal of Aquatic Plant Management “Outstanding Paper Award.” More recently, he has documented
the extensive infestation of a genetically distinct strain of hydrilla the Connecticut River and he plays a major role in the State’s research into
management options.
11NEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
Molecular survey for a recently introduced genotype of hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata L.f. Royle) in the United States
Dean Williams, Ph.D. US Army Engineer Research and Development Center
Nathan E. Harms US Army Engineer Research and Development Center
Michael J. Greer US Army Engineer Research and Development Center
Meg D. Modley Lake Champlain Basin Program
Abstract:
Newly introduced hydrilla in Connecticut belongs to a separate phylogenetic clade (Clade C) than the dioecious or monoecious biotypes (Zhu et al.
2015, Tippery et al. 2020). The objective of this work is to genetically characterize hydrilla populations in waterbodies of concern in the Northeast
to 1) determine the geographic range of the new introduction by sampling the Connecticut River and other water bodies in the region and 2)
determine the genetic diversity of the new Clade C hydrilla introduction.
Speaker Biography:
Education: Ph.D, Ecology, Purdue University, 2000; MS, Biology, University of Alabama in Huntsville, 1991; BA, Biology, Coe College, 1988; AA,
Kirkwood Community College, 1985. Areas of focus include conservation genetics, invasive species, and horned lizard conservation.
My past training was primarily in population biology and behavioral ecology (M.S. University of Alabama Huntsville, Ph.D. Purdue University), and
my research involved a long-term (1988-2002) study of cooperatively breeding brown jays in Monteverde, Costa Rica. During a stint of postdocs
at the University of Miami (2001-2007) my research interests were diverted into the fields of conservation and invasion genetics. I now use
molecular tools to inform the management of pests and species of conservation concern. Some current conservation projects include
understanding the population structure and dispersal of Texas horned lizards for reintroduction efforts, monitoring endangered marine otters
through non-invasive genetic sampling, and genetic monitoring of bats killed by wind turbines. Current invasive species research includes studying
the phylogeography of Brazilian peppertree and hydrilla to determine their origins and gain insight into their success as invaders. These studies
are also being conducted to improve the search for biological control insects. The discovery of cryptic species in these candidate control agents
has led to further systematic studies of these insect groups.
12NEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
A Summary of Nitelopsis obtusa (starry stonewort) Management and Control Practices
David Carr The Starry Stonewort Collaborative
Abstract:
"The Starry Stonewort Collaborative was designed to enhance the capacity of experts, resource managers and local stakeholders to address starry stonewort
(SSW) infestations across the Great Lakes basin. With the help of a network of over 40 collaborators, 8 Expert Panelists, and hundreds of citizen scientists and
stakeholders the Collaborative successfully raised awareness and disseminated information about Nitellopsis obtusa and its impacts.
Outcomes completed include:
• Engagement of hundreds of community level volunteers and stake holders across the GLB
• Development of a dedicated SSW website and online library
• Collection and distribution of factsheets describing SSW and its control
• Informal literature review focused on identification of commonalities and gaps in research
• Information exchanges in the form of webinars, training, face to face meetings and discussions, conference calls, data gathering and cultivation of
partnerships
The development of Best Management Practices (BMP) for the eradication of SSW has been elusive, and in response another of the outcomes of the Collaborative
was the curating and dissemination of control and management strategies. A summary of these practices and examples of their effectiveness will be presented.
The hope is that continued research into these or new strategies will pave the way for the needed BMPs."
Speaker Biography:
David Carr started at Finger Lakes Institute (FLI - Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Geneva, NY) in 2018 and managed the Starry Stonewort Collaborative, a
new direction for FLI that focused on the entire Great Lakes basin. Funded by the Environmental Protection Agency Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, the goal
of the Collaborative was to bring together and enhance the work of professionals and stakeholders in the fight against the spread of invasive aquatic Starry
Stonewort (Nitellopsis obtusa). David was intrigued by the unique nature and challenge of building a program that covers such a large area, and enjoys
interacting with people from across the upper Midwest, New York and Canada.
Coming from a largely technical background, David started as a geographic information system (GIS) analyst and later became a manager for diverse projects
including the development of GIS based decision support tools and bathymetric mapping. The majority of his experiences focused on water resources issues
and challenges which lead to consulting opportunities in the not-for-profit world.
David studied environmental sciences at the University of New Hampshire and received an M.S at the State University of New York College of Environmental
Science and Forestry. Having lived all his life in either upstate NY or New England, he has a strong appreciation for water resources of all kinds and is equally
concerned with protecting the Finger Lakes, Great Lakes and many other aquatic environments.
13NEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
Aquatic Pesticide Safety Training
Carlton Layne Aquatic Ecosystem Research Foundation
Abstract:
This presentation will address pesticide safety and storage. Of necessity, the presentation will cover label interpretation and understanding,
federal/state pesticide storage requirements and recommendations, legal requirements and enforcement liabilities. Aquatic Pesticide Core Credits
will be available for a variety of approved states.
Speaker Biography:
Education: Carlton Layne has a BA in Biology from Clarion State University, Clarion, PA and a MS in Criminal Justice from Rollins College, Winter
Park, FL. Carlton has spent 5 years as a USDA Inspector and 30 years of experience with the EPA as a Pesticides Inspector, State Liaison Officer,
Regional and National Training Officer, Chief Investigator and National Pesticide Expert. For the past 17 years, he has served as the Executive
Director of the Aquatic Ecosystem Research Foundation
14NEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
Student/Early Career Panel Discussion
Kyle Clonan, NEAPMS Student Director Montclair State University and the New Jersey Water Supply Authority
Abstract:
All students and early career professionals (less than 5 years in the industry) are welcome to join the current NEAPMS Student Director for a moderated panel
discussion regarding advice for those interested in our aquatics industry. Please bring your questions! Our panelists this year include:
West Bishop, Ph.D. SePRo Corporation
Lindsay Yoder LHPRISM
Emily Mayer Raritan Headwaters Association
Josh Burnside Black Lagoon Pond and Lake Management
Following the panel discussion, all student members of NEAPMS will caucus to nominate a 2021 NEAPMS Student Director to be included on
the official nominations ballot.
Dr. West Bishop is the Algae Scientist and Water Quality Research Manager at SePRO, a position he has held for over 10 years. Dr. Bishop has presented at many conferences and published numerous articles in peer-reviewed and
other literature and is a certified lake professional through NALMS. Dr. Bishop current focus includes inventing, developing and implementing numerous proactive and reactive solutions to improve water quality and control
nuisance cyanobacteria. He collaboratively works to solve large-scale algal issues across the country. He is also the Host of Algae Corner, an informational video series on all things algae with over 50,000 cumulative views.
Lindsay Yoder has been a member of the Northeast Aquatic Plant Management Society since 2018. She began working with aquatic plants in 2017 as the Assistant Aquatic Invasive Species Program Manager for the Lower Hudson
Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (PRISM) while being a full-time student before completing an AmeriCorps service term as a Watercraft Inspection Steward. She assumed the role of Aquatic Invasive Species
Program Coordinator for the PRISM in the Fall of 2018, and has since established a rigorous program focused on monitoring aquatic vegetation, zooplankton, shelled invertebrates, and water quality, invasive plant management,
and education and outreach with the help of a seasonal crew. Lindsay has a B.S. in Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences from Oregon State University, where she focused on aquatic ecology and fisheries biology, and is primarily interested
in the impacts of AIS on community dynamics in freshwater systems.
Emily Mayer is a Watershed Scientist for Raritan Headwaters Association in central New Jersey, who oversees the stream monitoring program efforts and organizes the citizen science volunteers who assist in collecting data
throughout the Raritan watershed. With 10 years of experience working in the lake management industry, Emily specializes in lake macrophyte mapping, water quality analysis, and project management. Emily started out as a high
school intern at Allied Biological, Inc and became a seasonal biologist while earning her B.S. degree in Biology from Centenary University in New Jersey. She continued her studies at the University of Florida’s online program while
working as a full-time Aquatic Biologist, she earned her M.S. in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences in May of 2020. She has been a member of NEAPMS for over 10 years, has presented posters, served as a moderator, manages the
societies social media accounts and is the current Editor of the society newsletter.
Josh Burnside graduated from Delaware Valley College in 2013 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science. He began his career in pond and lake management immediately following graduation. He currently works for Black
Lagoon Pond and Lake Management as a Territory Manager and Aquatic Specialist, where he oversees clientele in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland and Delaware. Joshua holds aquatic pesticide application licenses in four
states and is a SePro preferred applicator. A lifelong resident of Southeastern Pennsylvania, he currently resides in Broomall, PA with his wife, Samantha, daughter, Maeve and dog, Rory. Joshua has previously serv ed as a board
of director, Vice President, President, and Past President for the Pennsylvania Lake Management Society (PALMS); where he also runs their applicator accreditation program and has presented for the group. An avid outdoorsman,
Josh spends most of his free time hunting, fishing, and trail running throughout most of the mid Atlantic.
Host Biography:
Kyle is a Watershed Protection Specialist with the New Jersey Water Supply Authority—Watershed Protection Division as well as a graduate student at Montclair State University. A member of NEAPMS since 2019, Kyle was the
2021 NEAPMS Graduate Student Scholarship recipient. The 2022 conference will conclude his term as NEAPMS Student Director. At the Authority, Kyle is involved with projects regarding the Authority’s invasive species management
program, water monitoring programs, environmental planning and outreach efforts. He earned his B.S. in Environmental Science at Fordham University. Kyle has previously worked with the Delaware DNREC and the Monmout h
County Division of Planning.
15NEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
Keynote: Eagle Killer, Living on Hydrilla: Investigating the Combined Risk of Invasive Submerged Plants and Toxic Epiphytic Cyanobacteria
Susan Wilde, Ph.D. University of Georgia
T. Phillips University of Georgia
W. Gerrin University of Georgia
T. Neidermeyer Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg
S. Breinlinger Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg
Abstract:
Cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms are common in inland freshwater ecosystems, and while monitoring and management focus on mitigating risk of
toxic planktonic cyanobacteria, epiphytic and benthic cyanoHABs also present a threat to wildlife and human health. Vacuolar myelinopathy (VM) has
been documented in Bald eagles across the southeastern United States since its discovery in DeGray Lake, Arkansas in 1994. We have field and laboratory
evidence that VM is induced by aetokthonotoxin (AETX), a novel neurotoxin produced by the cyanobacterium Aetokthonos hydrillicola (A. hydrillicola)
growing on highly invasive aquatic plants. We have completed the identification, of the compound as a lipid-soluble pentabrominated bisindole alkaloid.
AETX is ingested directly by plant eating aquatic species (coots, waterfowl, snails, tadpoles, grass carp, sunfish) and indirectly through food chain transfer
via consumption of toxic prey (eagles, owl, hawks, salamander, water snakes, bass). We recently quantified AETX in wild prey that people consume --coot
tissues and filets of five fish species from Clark’s Hill/J. Strom Thurmond Reservoir. We have documented hydrilla/A. hydrillicola and the novel AETX in 25
locations including large hydropower/water supply reservoirs, county water source reservoirs, suburban recreational lakes, and farm ponds. Epiphytic
cyanobacteria present a novel risk of unknown capacity to impact species and community dynamics through the introduction of novel toxins with
potentially far-reaching effects across taxa and trophic levels within aquatic communities.
Speaker Biography:
Dr. Susan Wilde is an Associate Professor at the University of Georgia in the Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources in Athens, Georgia. While
previously employed as a research scientist within the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources Marine Resource Research Institute and University of
South Carolina Baruch Marine Laboratory, she was focused on merging management concerns and targeted research to optimize management in critical and
immediate aquatic natural resource problems. Dr. Susan Wilde’s research and teaching at UGA continues to focus on impaired aquatic systems and
interdisciplinary challenges with invasive plants/animals, nutrient pollution, harmful algal blooms, emerging contaminants and their implications for fish,
wildlife, and even humans depending on these valuable water resources. She discovered a new species of cyanobacteria growing on invasive aquatic plants
that is producing the neurotoxin responsible deaths of bald eagles and other aquatic wildlife in reservoirs across the southeastern United States. Collaborative
field and laboratory research confirmed the food chain transfer of a novel cyanotoxin from the invasive plants to the birds and fish. Recent research
demonstrated that the same toxin can be transferred by invertebrates and can cause impairment and fatality in reptiles and amphibians. She is already
working with reservoir managers to eliminate the hydrilla/cyanobacteria in affected reservoirs including; Army Corps of Engineer reservoirs, US Fish and
Wildlife Service Wildlife Refuges, Columbus Water Works, Georgia Power, Gwinnett County, Henry County and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation
Commission lakes. Dr. Wilde has a Bachelor of Science degree in Ecology, Ethology and Evolution from University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana, IL, and Master
of Science in Zoology and Doctor of Philosophy degree in Fish and Wildlife from the University of Georgia, Athens, GA.
16NEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
Detection of Hydrilla verticillata eDNA in a Lotic System
Dan Weber State University of New York, Albany
Steven Pearson, Ph.D. New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Michael Tessler, Ph.D. American Museum of Natural History
Abstract:
Sampling for environmental DNA (eDNA) is a powerful conservation tool that has made significant advancements in the past decade. Since its
application in 2008 to detect invasive tadpoles, there has been an increase in popularity due to improvements in the ability to expose rare and
invasive species that are otherwise difficult to detect through traditional field sampling methods. This study focused on the detection of Hydrilla
verticillata, an aquatic plant that is aggressively invasive in parts of North America, with the focus on determining a detectable range in lotic
systems. By addressing impacts of environmental variables this research supports studies on animals that have suggested flow rate to be a good
predictor of the detectable distance of eDNA. pH and relative turbidity did not demonstrate significant impacts on the detection of hydrilla eDNA
and although the data supported a significant relationship between temperature and the general ability to detect eDNA, it was not possible to
completely disentangle that relationship from the influence of the distance traveled along the river. While it was determined there was no way to
delineate a single detectable distance in all rivers, by collecting water samples at increasingly farther distances downstream from a lotic system
with a well-established population, hydrilla eDNA was detected to nearly 5km downstream from its source.
Speakers Biography:
Dan Weber is a recent graduate of the Biodiversity, Conservation, and Policy program at SUNY Albany where he worked with the NYSDEC on
invasive species prevention, detection, control, and community impacts. He earned his B.S. in biology from Northern Michigan University where
he focused on mycology and is currently working as a stay-at-home dad.
17NEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
Gaging Downstream Transport of Cyanobacteria and Cyanotoxins through Continuous Monitoring and Discrete Sampling
Kyle Clonan Montclair State University/New Jersey Water Supply Authority
Meiyin Wu, Ph.D. Montclair State University-NJ Center for Water Science and Technology (NJCWST)
Heather Desko New Jersey Water Supply Authority
Heather Heckathorn USGS NJ Water Science Center
Pam Reilly USGS NJ Water Science Center
Rob Newby NJDEP Division of Science and Research
David Hsu Montclair State University-NJCWST
Molly Hillenbrand Montclair State University-NJCWST
Melissa Mazzaro Montclair State University-NJCWST
Abstract:
Few studies have examined cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins travelling from lacustrine CyanoHAB through fluvial systems used for potable water
supply. The persistence of cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins during downstream transport from upstream lakes and reservoirs is not well quantified
nor are the mechanics well understood. The Raritan River Basin features three headwater lakes and reservoirs with perennial CyanoHABs.
Downstream of these persistent CyanoHABs, 1.5 million people rely upon the Raritan River for drinking water supply. As part of a multi-agency
project, 9 sampling sites spread across the Raritan River Basin were discretely sampled for various water quality parameters including nutrient
levels, phytoplankton assemblages and four cyanotoxins: total microcystin, anatoxin-a, cylindrospermopsin, and saxitoxins. Each site was discretely
sampled 20 times over a year-long study while coupled with USGS real-time continuous data monitors, seven of which include the pigments
phycocyanin and chlorophyll-a and dissolved oxygen. This presentation will focus on phytoplankton community composition and cyanotoxin
results to examine the persistence or degradation of toxin-producing cyanobacteria traveling downstream in the Raritan River Basin.
Speaker Biography:
Kyle is a Watershed Protection Specialist with the New Jersey Water Supply Authority—Watershed Protection Division as well as a graduate
student at Montclair State University. A member of NEAPMS since 2019, Kyle was the 2021 NEAPMS Graduate Student Scholarship recipient. The
2022 conference will conclude his term as NEAPMS Student Director. At the Authority, Kyle is involved with projects regarding the Authority’s
invasive species management program, water monitoring programs, environmental planning and outreach efforts. He earned his B.S. in
Environmental Science at Fordham University. Kyle has previously worked with the Delaware DNREC and the Monmouth County Division of
Planning.
18NEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
Efficacy of Clearcast and ProcellaCOR EC on European Frogbit
Bin Zhu, Ph.D. University of Hartford
Mark Heilman, Ph.D. (SePro Corporation)
Abstract:
European frogbit (Hydrocharis morsus-ranae L. or EFB) is an expanding invasive weed species in the northern US and has demonstrated negative impacts
in its invaded systems. Integrated methods for selective control of EFB are needed and are under active investigation. The goal of this project was
evaluation of the foliar efficacy of two herbicides, Clearcast (1 lb imazamox/gal) and ProcellaCOR EC (0.21 lb florpyrauxifen-benzyl/gal), on EFB growth.
Two independent experiments were conducted at the University of Hartford, West Hartford, CT and the SePRO Research and Technology Campus,
Whitakers, NC. Five groups were set up in each experiment: A. control group without any herbicide treatment (control), B. plants treated with Clearcast
at 32 fl oz/acre (C32), C. plants treated with Clearcast at 64 fl oz/acre (C64), D. plants treated with Procellacor EC at 10 Prescription Dose Units (PDU)/acre
foliar (equivalent to 32 fl oz/acre) (P10), and E. plants treated with Procellacor EC at 10 PDU/acre foliar + Clearcast 32 fl oz/acre (C32+P10). Herbicide
treatments were applied to target 20 gal/acre spray solutions. Results from CT showed that plants were completely dead in C64 and C32+P10 at the end
of 4-week experiment period; dry biomass in C32 and P10 were similar to the starting biomass but significantly less than the control group. Plant damage
was most significant in C64, C32, and C32+P10 treatments. Results from NC revealed visual leaf damage at three days after application with treatments
of C32, C64, and C32+P10. P10 alone showed some leaf curling of some of the leaves that appeared abnormally brittle for frogbit one week after
application, but that damage did not inhibit the plant from producing new growth. At the end of four weeks, plants in P10 ended up with more coverage
of the mesocosms and biomass whereas those in other three groups were significantly reduced. Both experiments concluded that Clearcast alone at the
foliar rate of 32 fl oz per acre may control European frogbit effectively, and ProcellaCOR EC alone has low efficacy for European frogbit control.
Speaker Biographies:
Dr. Bin Zhu is an Associate Professor of Biology and Director of the Environmental Studies Program at the University of Hartford in Connecticut. He received his
Ph.D. in biology and MPA from Syracuse University. Dr. Zhu was a post-doctoral associate at Cornell University and a research scientist at the Finger Lakes
Institute. His research focuses on ecology and management of invasive species and assessment of water quality. He has published about 30 articles in scientific
journals such as Aquatic Botany, Ecological Processes, Ecosystems, Fisheries, Freshwater Science, Journal of Aquatic Plant Management, Journal of Great Lakes
Research, and Journal of Plant Ecology. Currently he is also an Associate Editor for Journal of Aquatic Plant Management and Journal of Plant Ecology. He was
President of the NEAPMS in 2020-2021 and served on the Board in 2008-2011 and 2018-2022.
As Director of Aquatic Technology Leader for SePRO, Dr. Heilman leads the company’s research and development efforts to bring forward new technologies for
managing water resources. He also directly assists many public and private natural resource managers in the US and some international colleagues with
challenging projects managing aquatic invasive species with an emphasis on aquatic plants. Dr. Heilman received his Ph.D. in Aquatic Ecology from the University
of Notre Dame in 1998 where he was a NASA Global Change Research Fellow for his work examining changes in methane cycling associated with submersed
aquatic plants. He received the NEAPMS Aquatic Plant Science Award in 2011 and the APMS Outstanding Research and Technical Contributor Award in 2013. He
is a Past President of both NEAPMS and the national APMS.
19NEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
Overview of Recent Aquatic Plant Monitoring and Management Activities at Chautauqua Lake, New York
Kara Foley North Carolina State University
Glenn Sullivan SOLitude Lake Management
Andrew Howell North Carolina State University
Jens Beets North Carolina State University
Erika Haug North Carolina State University
Rob Richardson North Carolina State University
Abstract:
Chautauqua Lake (Chautauqua County, NY) is a highly productive, mesoeutrophic system that supports a rich diversity of aquatic life. The lake has
been impacted by abundant macrophyte growth since the early 1950’s and management efforts have included a variety of physical, chemical, and
biological techniques. Despite this work, Chautauqua Lake continues to maintain high densities of both native and non-native submersed aquatic
plant species that interfere with the lake’s ecology, recreational use, and economic value. To quantify the most recent distribution and abundance
of submersed vegetation at Chautauqua Lake, point-intercept surveys coupled with hydroacoustic mapping have been implemented within the
lake’s littoral zone by North Carolina State University researchers. In Fall 2020, 88% of surveyed points contained vegetation and, of those surveyed
points, Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) was present at 66%, making it the most abundant macrophyte species within the lake. In
Spring 2021, a subset of the survey sites were revisited and it was revealed that curly-leaf pondweed (Potamogeton crispus) was the dominant
species present at nearly 75% at the vegetated points. The results from these monitoring efforts have been used to not only track SAV populations
over time, but to also inform and evaluate management activities. In 2021, 319 acres of curly-leaf pondweed were treated with Aquathol K and
38 acres of Eurasian watermilfoil were treated with ProcellaCOR EC by SOLitude Lake Management. In conjunction, nearly 14 million pounds of
aquatic vegetation have been mechanically removed from the waterbody during the 2021 season by the Chautauqua Lake Association. This talk
will further discuss the history and current status of aquatic plant management activities at Chautauqua Lake and how long-term monitoring has
been incorporated as an important decision-making tool.
Speaker Biography:
Kara recently completed her Master’s degree and has continued to work as a PhD student at North Carolina State University under the direction
of Dr. Rob Richardson. For her Master’s thesis, Kara researched the ecology and management of an uncharacteristic dioecious population of
Hydrilla verticillata in a Piedmont reservoir. In 2016, Kara earned her BS in Environmental Science from the University of New Hampshire. Post-
graduation, she was fortunate to have the opportunity to intern under Ms. Amy Smagula at the New Hampshire Department of Environmental
Services. Kara served as the Student Director on the NEAPMS board in 2019 and looks forward to continued membership within the Society.
20NEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
Forty-years of Water Chestnut Management on Lake Champlain
Kimberly Jensen Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation
Abstract:
The State of Vermont and New York have an extensive history of managing Water chestnut in Lake Champlain since it was first discovered in the
1940’s. While a 1970 report outlined optimistic results of the management efforts whereby the population was reduced so much so that it was
difficult to find plants, by the late 1970's the population had exploded, forming dense mats that made boat travel difficult throughout Lake
Champlain. Since that time, the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (VTDEC) has led the Lake Champlain Water Chestnut
Management Program that implements mechanical and hand harvesting operations on the Vermont and New York shorelines, surveying and
harvesting plants within approximately 1,300 shoreline acres. Funding levels and state / federal agency support for this effort has experienced
highs and lows throughout the year, and as a result, there have been demonstrable increases and decreases in the miles of intense mechanical
harvesting needed to control the dense populations. The program has completed almost forty years of mostly stable field operations with
commensurate results, demonstrating that a sustainable and long-term effort is necessary despite the technical, financial, and operational
challenges associated with maintaining this effort. This presentation provides an overview of the Lake Champlain Water Chestnut Management
Program’s history, the documented results, and the contemporary tools used at present to monitor the effectiveness of the harvesting operations.
Speaker Biography:
Ms. Jensen is an Aquatic Biologist with the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation where she oversees the Aquatic Invasive Species
Program. Throughout her career, she has implemented a wide range of applications to protect, conserve, and restore ecosystems and waterways
ranging from managing aquatic invasive species, to the installation of Green Stormwater Infrastructure projects, to the coordination of public
participation for a large-scale EPA Cleanup Agreement on the Housatonic River. Ms. Jensen has networked with landowners, municipalities,
partnering agencies, and field professionals to complete sustainable projects that have long term benefits for their communities. Ms. Jensen holds
an Undergraduate Degree in Environmental Sciences from the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, and a Master’s Degree in
Science Education from Northern Vermont University.
21NEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
POSTER: Monitoring Monoecious Hydrilla in Flowing Water Systems of North Carolina
Jens Beets North Carolina State University
Erika Haug North Carolina State University
Benjamin Sperry North Carolina State University
Tyler Harris US Army Corps of Engineers
Rob Richardson North Carolina State University
Abstract:
Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) is a pervasive noxious weed that has invaded many waterbodies in the United States. Hydrilla infestations have the
potential to negatively impact aquatic ecosystems and local economies, impeding water flow and displacing native vegetation. Historically, hydrilla
has been particularly problematic in lakes in reservoirs. However, in recent years hydrilla has become an increasing nuisance in flowing systems
such as the Erie Canal, Cape Fear River, Lake Panasoffkee Outlet River, as well as irrigations and drainage canals. This monitoring effort seeks to
improve understanding of hydrilla present in flowing systems, with a comparison to a non-flowing system. Improved understanding of hydrilla in
flowing systems may aid management efforts and utilize new management strategies and herbicide use patterns. A total of six sites were selected
on the Deep, Neuse, and Cape Fear Rivers of North Carolina, with three non-flowing reference sites on Lake Raleigh, NC. An analysis of current
findings concerning differences in life stage, major phenological events, and biomass production will be provided. Differences in growth habit,
sprouting, flowering, and timing of tuber production have been observed between flowing systems and non-flowing systems. This monitoring is
also part of a collaboration with the University of Florida, with mirrored sampling and monitoring on dioecious hydrilla in Florida.
Speaker Biography:
Jens Beets is a graduate student in the Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology department at North Carolina State University under Dr. Rob
Richardson. He completed his MS in Agronomy at University of Florida at the Center for Aquatic Invasive Plants under Dr. Mike Netherland.
22NEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
POSTER: Potential Exposure to Cyanotoxins in Splash While Recreating During Cyanobacterial Harmful Algal Blooms
Cole Beale State University of New York, Oneonta
Abstract:
Cyanobacteria can form harmful blooms (cyanoHABs) and associated cyanotoxins that can lead to adverse health effects. Routes of exposure to
cyanotoxins include accidental ingestion, aerosol inhalation, and dermal contact. Exposures can cause symptoms with variable durations and
severity. Recreational activity on a lake such as swimming, boating, or tubing can put a person at risk for all three routes of exposure. Published
studies on human cyanotoxin exposures while recreating on a lake during a cyanoHAB have quantified aerosolized cyanotoxins. Dermal exposure
has been studied in laboratory experiments, yet the actual amount of cyanotoxins that can be splashed and make dermal contact or be ingested
during lake recreation has not been quantified. This project in progress is studying the potential of recreational exposure to cyanotoxins in water
splashing from Chautauqua Lake, a eutrophic glacial lake in southwestern New York, during simulated recreational boating activity. To test this, a
novel sampling device was constructed to be towed behind a boat, mimicking a person being towed on an inflatable tube, collecting water
splashing from boat wakes, waves, and wind. Splash samples collected and analyzed have contained detectable levels of cyanotoxins, and when
the ambient lake water contained cyanotoxins exceeding safe drinking water limits, the splash samples did as well. This splash has potential to
make skin contact, eye contact, and may be accidentally inhaled, or ingested by the recreator. Final results from this project will provide data for
evaluating safety of splash-prone lake recreation during cyanoHABs.
Speaker Biography:
Cole is a graduate student and State University of New York College at Oneonta studying biology.
23NEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
POSTER: Analysis of Genetic Variation between invasive Myriophyllum heterophyllum and native
Myriophyllum heterophyllum populations in New York State
Jack Andrews University of Albany
Steven Pearson, Ph.D. New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
Ryan Thurman, Ph.D. University of Albany
Abstract:
Myriophyllum heterophyllum (variable-leaved milfoil) is an aquatic plant that has short, emergent spike above the waterline that is native to most
of the United States east of Texas and South/West of NY. It thrives in artificially made waterbodies such as canals, sand and gravel pits or residual
lakes formed after mining with alkalinities between 0 and 1.7 mM. In New York state, M. heterophyllum and the M. heterophyllum hybrid species
with M. laxum is considered a prohibited invasive species under the Department of Environmental Conservation’s Part 575 Prohibited and
Regulated Species regulatory system, meaning it is illegal to knowingly possess the plant. The Adirondacks and Lower Hudson regions have the
highest infestation/invasion rate in NYS of M.heterophyllum. This begs the question of how M. heterophyllum arrived at these regions and if the
native and non-native populations differ genetically. One known site within the native range in western NY was visited and for the invasive
populations, three sites in the Adirondacks and one site in the Lower Hudson was visited. Samples from at least 3 plants were collected at each
location of M. heterophyllum. To increase sample size in each region, voucher specimens from herbaria will be used. DNA isolation will be
performed so that genetic relatedness can be assessed by sequencing specimen’s target sequences (Internal transcribed spacer and chloroplast
DNA). Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism will also be performed in order to evaluate species and hybrid identifications based on
morphology and/or DNA sequences. We hope to obtain results in the near future so that we can better understand the population of M.
heterophyllum in New York State and potential dispersal mechanisms of this plant.
Speaker Biography:
Jack Andrews grew up in a small town on Long Island, NY. He aspired to one day become a DNA analyst at a crime laboratory, so he took the first
step of pursing his bachelor’s in biology at the University at Albany. His undergraduate academic experience provided him fundamentals to
continue this education continuation at the University at Albany, where he is currently a master’s student in the Forensic Biology program. He is
gaining experience in various novel biotechnology techniques in the field of forensics, which he has applied during his time as a graduate research
intern at the Department of Environmental Conservation’s Bureau of Invasive Species. Jack has compiled a database of qPCR assays for Animal
and Plant invasive species eDNA detection by researching previous work and developing primers in silico for species that have yet to have prior
research. Jack is now working on the development of a project that will provide evidence of the genetic difference between the native and invasive
population of Myriophyllum heterophyllum (variable-leaved watermilfoil) in New York State. Techniques that he is currently using in his Forensic
Biology master’s program will help him complete his project.
24NEAPMS 2022 Virtual Conference Abstracts and Speaker Biographies
POSTER: Applying Publicly Available Satellite Imagery to Assess Harmful Cyanobacterial Blooms at a Recreational Lake
in New Jersey / New York
T. David Hsu New Jersey Center for Water Science and Technology, Montclair State University
Anne Hurley New Jersey Center for Water Science and Technology
Yaritza Acosta-Caraballo Environmental Science and Management Program, Montclair State University
Mark Chopping Geographic Information Science Program, Montclair State University
Meiyin Wu, Ph.D. New Jersey Center for Water Science and Technology, Montclair State University
Abstract:
Harmful cyanobacterial blooms (HCBs) can lead to public health concerns, ecological stresses, and economic losses. Thus, conditions of HCBs in
waterbodies have been routinely monitored. In addition to field investigations, remotely sensed satellite imagery has been utilized to assess HCBs
on a broader scale. Cyanobacterial Assessment Network (CyAN) is a collaborative project among the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as well as the United States
Geologic Survey (USGS) and produces remote sensing products using a cyanobacteria index (CI) algorithm to estimate cyanobacteria
concentrations. The goal of this study was to apply publicly available satellite imagery tools to estimate HCBs at the Greenwood Lake located on
the border of New Jersey and New York. The Greenwood Lake has been well documented with ongoing HCBs during summers and falls. Water
samples were collected at 15 sites along the shore of the Greenwood Lake on July 19, 2019 and transported to the Montclair State University’s
New Jersey Phytoplankton Lab for cyanobacteria identification and enumeration using a bright field microscope. Quantifications of in situ
fluorescent phycocyanin were carried out using a CyanFluor Handheld HAB Indicator (Turner Designs, CA, USA). Level-2 daily 300m spatial
resolution CI maps derived from the satellite imagery based on the European Space Agency Sentinel 3A and 3B Ocean and Land Color Instrument
(OLCI) were acquired from the CyAN project and composited to obtain 7-day maximum values prior to July 19, 2019. Due to the existence of cloudy
pixels or unresolvable imagery for the sampling sites located at a narrow creek that feeds into the northern portion of the lake, only 6 out of the
15 sites were selected to compare the CyAN imagery with the field samples. The results of this study indicated that cyanobacteria counts derived
from the CyAN imagery showed poor agreements with both laboratory-processed cyanobacteria counts and in situ phycocyanin readings (R2 =
0.20 and 0.26, respectively). Additional satellite imagery tools, such as Landsat, are currently being explored to support water quality monitoring
and management related to HCBs in Greenwood Lake.
Speaker Biography:
David is a student at the New Jersey Center for Water Science and Technology at Montclair State University in New Jersey.
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