Sustainable Finger Lakes (SFLX) has received a small grant from Freshwater Future to research and identify sustainable, long-term solutions to combat harmful algal blooms (HABs) in the Finger Lakes region. This funding will support efforts to raise public awareness, connect researchers and advocates, and explore effective land-use strategies to mitigate the issue.

SFLX has been actively engaged with this environmental challenge for over six years. Previously, our organization hosted a webinar titled The Role of Land Use in Harmful Algal Blooms, highlighting the link between land management practices and water quality. While much of the collective response has centered on monitoring HABs, SFLX aims to shift the focus toward preventive measures. Given the political complexities surrounding land use reforms, the organization seeks to identify cost-effective strategies to curb manure runoff and other pollutants from entering local waterways.

Request for Information 

Currently, SFLX is in the initial phase of gathering background information and exploring viable policy options. The organization welcomes contributions from researchers, policymakers, and community members. Those with relevant resources, research articles, and insights are encouraged to share insights. Interested individuals can schedule a meeting here or direct general inquiries to emily@sustainablefingerlakes.org.