WDF June 2021 - Innovations in Remote Sensing for Water Quality

Advances in remote sensing technologies and big data processing have vastly accelerated the potential to detect and monitor changes in aquatic ecosystems. Near-real time monitoring today is used to assist in early warning systems for risks to water resources, including harmful algal blooms and other water quality problems. These technologies allow us to detect and understand impacts to aquatic ecosystems from land use change, climate, and other factors. Yet there is much work to do as data about the environment and life in aquatic habitats may be difficult to collect or find in standardized formats, and many critical data remain to be shared openly.

This forum brings together researchers and scientists from across the United States to share perspectives on their work in using remote sensing to detect water quality changes and their impact on life, including ours, in lakes, oceans, and wetlands. This interactive discussion will inform participants about why water quality monitoring is important in the context of biology, ecology, and societal benefit, and about the current state of remote sensing for water quality, current challenges, and future opportunities.

PARTICIPANTS WILL LEARN ABOUT

· Near real-time monitoring of lake water quality.
· Potential for remote sensing as early warning detection for water hazards.
· The need for common and easily used tools for monitoring and assessments of water quality and aquatic biodiversity.
· Linkages to societal benefit, sustainable development, and conservation.

MODERATOR
Dr. Frank E. Muller-Karger
Co-Chair, Marine Biodiversity Observation Network

PANELISTS
Dr. Steven Greb
Director, GEO AquaWatch

Dr. Kate Fickas
Ecologist, Utah Department of Environmental Protection and Research Faculty at Utah State University

Dr. Leif Olmanson
Researcher, University of Minnesota

Dr. Christine Lee
Scientist, NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Water Data Forum is a free monthly virtual series presented by Cleveland Water Alliance, the Water Environment Federation, and the Midwest Big Data Innovation Hub.

This webinar aired live on June 29, 2021.

[susannelauberfuerst]

thanks for sending the link to people who could not attend - great service!