Overview of Blue-Green Algae Task Force Efforts

Here is a look at key topics from the Blue-Green Algae Task Force’s meetings:

• Basin Management Action Plans (BMAP)
  BMAPs are restorations road maps with an identified suite of projects/actions collectively intended to reduce pollutants to achieve a restoration target. The task force will focus on projects where they will yield maximum pollutant reduction in all BMAP areas.
• Agriculture and Best Management Practices 
  It is critical that all agricultural producers enrolled in BMAP programs maintain accurate records to demonstrate that they are implementing BMAPs and that those records be verified and made available to the appropriate authorities for analysis and review.
• Human Waste
  The task force recommends broader regulatory oversight of onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems to ensure that those systems function properly, protect the environment against nutrient pollution and are protective of human health.
• Stormwater Treatment Systems
  The task force recommends the development and implementation of a stormwater system inspection and monitoring program with the goal of identifying improperly functioning and/or failing systems so that corrective action may be taken.
• Innovative Technologies and Applications
  The task force recommends an investment in a diverse portfolio of technologies, focusing on those that are demonstrably cost-efficient, environmentally safe and scalable
• Blue-Green Algae Blooms and Public Health
  The task force recommends that the Department of Health work collaboratively with the Department of Environmental Protection to implement a transparent, consistent and comprehensive communication plan that recognizes the diverse population in Florida in order to inform the public about the potential health impacts associated with exposure to algae and/or algal toxins.
• Science-based Decision Making, Data Needs and Monitoring Programs
  The task force recommends that monitoring programs be designed to address status and trends for key water quality parameters. Monitoring efforts should also be employed to answer specific questions, address unknowns, allow for an improved design and adaptive management of agricultural and urban BMPs, edge-of-field and regional projects and BMAPs.