Harmful Algal Bloom Mapping
Today, my crew and I set out for an adventure along Ellicott Creek in Tonawanda to check on the latest algal bloom conditions and document the scene. By “crew,” I mean my three young daughters—ages 3, 6, and 9—who eagerly joined me for this unique project. Together, we turned what might seem like a technical task into a family adventure, blending science and exploration with a touch of father-daughter bonding.
As we approached the creek, it became clear that the blooms were as dramatic as they were concerning. The once-clear waters were blanketed in swirls of green, an undeniable marker of harmful algal blooms (HABs). These blooms, caused by excess nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus from fertilizers, septic systems, and urban runoff, create significant environmental challenges. They deplete oxygen in the water, endangering fish and other aquatic species, while also releasing toxins that can harm both wildlife and humans.
Equipped with my drone, I explained to my daughters how we use aerial technology to capture high-resolution images of these blooms. My 9-year-old took special interest in the controls, watching closely as the drone ascended, while my younger two marveled at the tiny aircraft in action. The overhead view revealed a stunning yet troubling landscape—a canvas of green streaks that starkly contrasted with the lush treetops and moored boats below.
While I focused on piloting the drone and framing the shots, my daughters helped document the trip in their own ways. My 6-year-old insisted on taking “ground-level” photos with my phone, and my 3-year-old proudly carried our water bottles and declared herself the “official assistant.” Their enthusiasm was a reminder of why this work matters—not just for science but for the next generation, who will inherit both the beauty and the challenges of our natural world.
This outing wasn’t just about capturing data—it was about fostering curiosity and raising awareness. Algal blooms are more than just an eyesore. They disrupt ecosystems, render water unsafe for recreation, and challenge our ability to maintain a balanced environment. Seeing my daughters so engaged in this process reaffirmed my commitment to both environmental stewardship and education.
Back home, as we reviewed the images, my daughters couldn’t stop talking about the patterns they saw in the water. To them, the swirls looked like a giant piece of abstract art, but I made sure to explain the science behind it in a way they could understand. Moments like these remind me that even the youngest among us can be inspired to care about the environment when given the chance to explore and learn.
If nothing else, I hope this experience encourages others to see the value in observing and documenting our surroundings—even if it’s just for a short trip to a local creek. The future of our environment depends on both knowledge and action, and sometimes the first step is as simple as taking a closer look.
