Monitoring and Event Response (MERHAB)
The Monitoring and Event Response for Harmful Algal Blooms (MERHAB) Research Program
builds capacity along our coasts for enhanced HAB monitoring and response. This
helps NOAA and state partners identify when beaches, shellfisheries, and marine
animals are at risk from harmful algae, and to make informed decisions that protect
public health and safeguard our coastal economies.
MERHAB funds the highest quality science projects that
- Enhance routine water quality and shellfish monitoring with better
HAB detection
methods, training, and strategies;
- Add sensors to ocean observing systems for low-cost, long-term observations of HABs
and related ocean conditions;
- Demonstrate operational capabilities for forecast models to enhance
HAB early warning
capability;
- Ensure trained and equipped personnel are able to mobilize quickly, conduct appropriate
sampling and testing, and communicate effectively to foster improved response to
HAB events.
As a result of the
MERHAB Program, managers are better armed to mitigate
HAB problems
in their communities. We help states, tribes, and other monitoring agencies keep
pace with the growing national HAB problem by providing them access to proven detection
technologies, helping to validate these technologies, and assess benefits of incorporating
existing methods.
MERHAB also supports ongoing efforts to develop predictive models
and operational HAB forecasts.
MERHAB is authorized as a national competitive research program within
NOAA under
HABHRCA.
Funding announcements for PCMHAB, and other CSCOR national competitive HAB programs
(ECOHAB and
PCMHAB), are issued on a rotating regional basis.