Recipient Organization
CLEMSON UNIVERSITY
(N/A)
CLEMSON,SC 29634
Performing Department
(N/A)
Non Technical Summary
Extreme heat leads to rapid growth of aquatic plants and algae in ponds, which are often used as water sources for livestock. Identifying algal species in these ponds is crucial for timing response strategies effectively. Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) can contaminate water with toxins, posing serious health risks to livestock, as evidenced by recent incidents including the death of livestockon a farm due to a potential HAB.Farmers frequently report suspected HABs to Extension agents, but delays in confirming toxin levels and providing mitigation recommendations can hinder timely responses. This project aims to develop a user-friendly web application for real-time identification of HAB genera on farms. The app will feature images of local HAB species and offer digital confirmation by connecting users with experts. By training farmers and Extension agents on this technology, the project seeks to improve HAB awareness, speed up response times, enhance livestock health, and bolster the resilience of agroecosystems.
Animal Health Component
(N/A)
Research Effort Categories
Basic
(N/A)
Applied
(N/A)
Developmental
(N/A)
Goals / Objectives
The main goal of this project is to accelerate the identification and confirmation of the genus of HABs in livestock ponds by providing farmers and water extension agents with a web application. The following objectives will be achieved through this project.Create a team of proficient experts and trainers prepared to educate and support extension agents, farmers, and stakeholders in recognizing HAB genera through digital technologies.Digitize an existing HAB identification handbook to develop a user-friendly web application capable of identifying HAB genera, including Microcystis, Anabaena, Cylindrospermopsis, Nodularin, Aphanizomenon, and Lyngbya.Conduct training sessions across different platforms (e.g., in class, in the field, and online) to instruct extension agents and farmers on the proper utilization and navigation techniques of the web-based application and connect them with the HAB experts.Quantify the impact of the trainings and assess the impact of the utilization of technologies in identifying HAB genus.
Project Methods
The following methods will be used to achieve various objectives outlined in the project.1. Develop and organize a team of experts and users for HAB detection using technology.2.The proposed study will develop a secure, user-friendly web app for identifying HAB genera. Key features include easy navigation, compatibility with various devices, robust data protection, and accessibility for future updates. The app will be designed with input from Clemson University's web development experts. It will use an open-source CMS like WordPress for flexibility and consistency, and be optimized for security and search engine visibility. The app will undergo in-house and professional testing before deployment, and will be hosted on a cloud server. The final product will be promoted through various channels to ensure wide access.3.Training sessions for farmers, Extension agents, NRCS, and state agency staff will be organized using existingdatabase. These will include on-site, classroom, and recorded video formats. On-site sessions will offer hands-on learning and address specific concerns while providing real-world experience with genus identification and software testing. Led by water quality and HAB experts, the training will ensure participants understand how to use the web app effectively for accurate HAB genus identification and informed livestock management decisions.4. Acomprehensive program evaluation throughsurveys. This will assess the technology's impact on the speed and accuracy of HAB species identification, focusing on how effectively it reduces identification time.