Harnessing Near Real-Time Satellite Technology to Map the Movements of Algal Blooms

The algal blooms in Lake Winnipeg are problematic for recreational users as they are constantly on the move due to wind and currents. It's difficult to pick a beach when you live an hour away and arrive to find it green, leaving everyone disappointed. And just this week, CBC News highlighted the persistence of algae blooms in Lake Winnipeg, urging caution for both residents and visitors.

CBC News reached out to Dr. Paul M. Cooley, Founder and President of NextGen Environmental Research Inc. for an interview to provide expert insights after coming across a post he shared on the BloomFinder Facebook page. In the segment, he stressed the importance of monitoring and assessing algal blooms, a key focus of NGE’s BloomFinder project. Using satellite imagery, BloomFinder offers real-time algal advisories through social media platforms.

CBC News Interview with Dr. Paul M. Cooley, Founder and President of NextGen Environmental Research Inc. 

The said page is dedicated to sharing information on algal blooms in the south basin of Lake Winnipeg, where the community has been challenged by this issue for years, and its ongoing relevance highlights the fact that we can take action to confront and adapt to environmental challenges—especially with the advancements in science and technology.

Watch the news interview here: 

CBC News interview with Dr. Cooley, aired on September 10, 2024.