Alexandrium Bloom Transport: Observations and Models
 

                     D.J. McGillicuddy, D.M. Anderson, B.A. Keafer, Principal Investigators
 

                                         Sponsored by NOAA's  MERHAB Program


 
 

 

                                                                           PROJECT SUMMARY
 

The overall objective of this project is to obtain field data on A. fundyense  cell distributions and local hydrodynamics and to interpret those data using existing numerical models and data products from GoMOOS to determine if they can be used to provide short-term forecasts of bloom transport. Specific tasks are to: 1) collect field data in the western Gulf of Maine at temporal and spatial scales suitable for resolving A. fundyense distributions within the area covered by a CODAR array; 2) use CODAR and Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP) measurements to estimate surface water velocities; 3) assimilate velocity observations into an existing physical/biological coupled model; 4) seed the hindcast simulation with passive particles to assess transport of A. fundyense; 5) compare observed and predicted A. fundyense distributions with PSP toxicity records; and  6) assess future needs for transitioning these predictive tools to meet management needs.


 
 

 


Year 1 Field Results -- R/V Oceanus Cruise 391

    Hydrodynamic modeling

    SeaWiFS imagery

    Draft cruise report (.doc)

    Drifters   (J. Manning)

    Photos
 


 
 

 


Year 2 Field Results -- R/V Oceanus Cruise 402

    Hydrodynamic modeling

    SeaWiFS imagery

    Draft cruise report (.doc)

    Drifters   (J. Manning)

    Photos