Algal Toxins: Reducing Community Vulnerability

Algal Toxins: Reducing Community Vulnerability


October 17, 2019

Skills Based Training and Information Exchange Workshop Lead by Kachemak Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve

Workshop Purpose: In a changing climate, the threat of marine toxins as a result of harmful algal blooms is increasing in coastal communities. Alaska has thousands of miles of coastline, little coverage for testing of subsistence harvested species (shellfish), and no prediction tools for when shellfish are safe to consume.

There is a need for coordinated response to communicate risk and reduce vulnerability of coastal subsistence harvesters to algal toxins.
Expected Outcomes: Participants will understand which organizations are involved with shellfish toxin testing and regulation and co-develop communication tools for shellfish consumers, health professionals and partners to decrease vulnerability to algal toxin poisoning.

Presenters: Rosie Masui, Lorne Carrol, Kris Holderied, Kim Schuster, Michael Opheim
Hosts: Kachemak Bay NERR Harmful Species Program and Coastal Training Program

Format and Participants
Morning Session: 9:30 am-12:30 pm
Facilitated Discussion and Presentations: Share knowledge with topical experts and
discuss harmful algal blooms, algal toxin health risks, and roles and responsibilities for
prevention and response.

Participants: Practitioners from resource management, health professions, scientists and extension
agents and other professions relevant to interacting with wild shellfish consumers.
Afternoon Session: 1:00 - 4:00 pm
Lab: Technical training with hands-on experience in shellfish monitoring techniques,
phytoplankton identification, and understanding toxin testing results.

Participants: Morning session attendees, as well as mariculture and aquaculture professionals,
environmental coordinators and students.

Please RSVP at this Workshop Registration link and contact Rosie for more information: rmmasui@alaska.edu

View printable flyer here.

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