Linking Satellite Observations and Field Data to Improve Harmful Algal Bloom Monitoring and Water Quality in North Idaho Waters
Faculty Mentor Information
Dr. Margaret Wolf, University of Idaho
Presentation Date
7-15-2026
Abstract
Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) are one of the most significant problems in freshwater bodies when it comes to declining water quality and endangering aquatic and human life. It becomes essential to have timely and wide-ranging observations in order to monitor the HABs. However, traditional methods of gathering data through field surveys are impractical due to time and cost constraints. These conventional methods can be enhanced by the use of remote sensing techniques.
This project looked into the possibility of blending satellite- based environmental data with on-site water quality measurements, to improve the monitoring of harmful algal bloom events and the overall water quality in Coeur d'Alene Lake and the nearby North Idaho area. The on-site work included observations like water temperature, dissolved oxygen, Secchi Depth, conductivity, pH, nutrients, and other water quality indicators, and these were then compared to satellite- based environmental data that was gathered during the matching time periods. This investigation is trying to figure out whether satellite observations can pick up on factors that tie into HAB emergence and also help show shifts in water quality.
Preliminary analysis measured how satellite data relates to in-situ water quality measurements. We explored the dissolved oxygen level, temperature and secchi depth related to the blooms.
By pairing field observations with satellite monitoring, this work aims to make HAB monitoring and water quality assessment a bit more effective, and at the same time more economical. That kind of insight can be extremely useful for future water resource management efforts across North Idaho waters. These analyses can be useful for water managers to understand the potential for algae blooms under varying conditions.
Linking Satellite Observations and Field Data to Improve Harmful Algal Bloom Monitoring and Water Quality in North Idaho Waters
Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) are one of the most significant problems in freshwater bodies when it comes to declining water quality and endangering aquatic and human life. It becomes essential to have timely and wide-ranging observations in order to monitor the HABs. However, traditional methods of gathering data through field surveys are impractical due to time and cost constraints. These conventional methods can be enhanced by the use of remote sensing techniques.
This project looked into the possibility of blending satellite- based environmental data with on-site water quality measurements, to improve the monitoring of harmful algal bloom events and the overall water quality in Coeur d'Alene Lake and the nearby North Idaho area. The on-site work included observations like water temperature, dissolved oxygen, Secchi Depth, conductivity, pH, nutrients, and other water quality indicators, and these were then compared to satellite- based environmental data that was gathered during the matching time periods. This investigation is trying to figure out whether satellite observations can pick up on factors that tie into HAB emergence and also help show shifts in water quality.
Preliminary analysis measured how satellite data relates to in-situ water quality measurements. We explored the dissolved oxygen level, temperature and secchi depth related to the blooms.
By pairing field observations with satellite monitoring, this work aims to make HAB monitoring and water quality assessment a bit more effective, and at the same time more economical. That kind of insight can be extremely useful for future water resource management efforts across North Idaho waters. These analyses can be useful for water managers to understand the potential for algae blooms under varying conditions.