Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs), which can be caused in freshwater by various cyanobacteria, represent a significant and costly threat to our Nation’s economy and natural resources. HABs impact waterways, infrastructure, operations, and associated resources across the Nation. Innovative, cost-effective, and scalable technologies for early detection, prevention, and management of HABs are needed.

This announcement focuses on the field validation of innovative HAB prevention and management technologies, or combinations of technologies, that have been proven at lab or pilot scales.  It is essential that these technologies are cost-effective and efficient in varied freshwater system types (e.g. lotic, lentic) and varied climatic ecoregions across our Nation.  Proposals that focus extensively on water quality, including impacts to drinking water, are not needed at this time. Proposals that use Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) as a monitoring or surveying method will not be considered.

Projects should match one of the following objectives:

(1) The project’s potential to significantly reduce the frequency and effects of HABs associated with water resources development projects.

(2) The project’s utilization of new, innovative methods or tools, or technology being developed under the Freshwater Harmful Algal Bloom Research and Development Initiative.

(3) The degree to which the project leverages existing Federal and State data and ongoing programs and activities of Federal and State agencies.

(4) Preference will be given to projects that address a HAB issue associated with a water resources development project in one of the six focus areas identified in eligibility requirements provided below.

Deadlines:

Pre-Proposal due date: 21 June 2022, 1700 CST.

Full Proposal due date, if invited: 15 July 2022.