As harmful algal blooms (HABs) increase in frequency, duration, and magnitude worldwide, the health of humans, domestic animals, and wildlife are increasingly threatened by HABs. The Traveling HAB Lab aims to empower residents of New Jersey to protect our aquatic ecosystems and water resources. We also aim to increase awareness of the health risks associated with exposure to HABs and provide knowledge on how to protect yourself, your loved ones, and pets from HABs.
As part of our mission, we are recruiting teams of Citizen Scientists for water quality and HAB monitoring in New Jersey. Each team will have the opportunity to study one waterbody to perform HAB and water quality data and water sample collection. NJCWST’s NJDEP certified laboratory will analyze the samples collected by each team for cyanotoxins. If you are interested in becoming a Citizen Scientist, please visit the Citizen Science webpage.
In 2024, we recruited 4 teams of Citizen Scientists and 5 teams in 2023. Each team has had the opportunity to study a lake by performing HAB and water quality data and sample collection during the hot summer months.
The Traveling HAB Lab also ran a Free Cyanotoxin Testing Program in 2023, enabling individuals and organizations to safeguard their community against the impact of HABs. The water quality results from this program are accessible through the 2023 Citizen Science Data Portal.
To access Citizen Science water quality results, please visit the data portals below:
2023 Lab Partners
- Cupsaw Lake Improvement Association
- Essex County Environmental Center
- Great Swamp Watershed Association
- Lake Owassa Community Association
- Musconetcong Watershed Association
- New Jersey Highlands Council
- Plumsted Township Environmental Committee
- Upper Greenwood Lake Property Owners Association
Thank you to all our partners!
In addition to our Citizen Science Program, we also offer free in-person or online lessons on HABs, water quality, and water conservation! These lessons are designed for classroom learning, club/group activities, or community events. Learn about lessons offered, relevant lessons are listed under the Harmful Algal Blooms, Water Quality, and Water Science category. Contact the email below to schedule.
Contact
Colleen Potocki
Coordinator of Education and Outreach
New Jersey Center for Water Science and Technology
Montclair State University
- Phone
- 973-655-3711
- njcwst@montclair.edu