Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) Response Team, Cayuga County Health Department

Sitting Left to Right:
Deanna Ryan, Senior Public Health Educator; Mary Jump, Sanitarian; Kim Abate, Senior Public Health Educator; Megan Bell, Principal Typist; Eileen O'Connor, Environmental Health Director; Lisa Jones, Sanitarian

Standing Left to Right:
Kaitlyn Salato, RN, Registered Nurse; Deb Green, Office Manager; Chrisann Hunt, Senior Typist; Scott King, Senior Sanitarian; Sharon Blowers, Principal Typist

Not Pictured:
Duane Ross, Sanitarian; Kris Scholl, Sanitarian

The Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) Response Team worked persistently prior to the mid to late summer bloom season in 2017 to educate health department staff and community partners and create innovative preparedness, informational and urgent response messaging regarding effects of HABs. Staff worked 7 days a week taking and shipping water samples for analysis, educating waterfront operators and responding to calls from concerned citizens during HAB season. Their impressive work process was beneficial to other local health departments in New York State who were also seeking to address HABs in their counties. The work of the HAB Response Team with Cayuga County water operators and state partners stands out as remarkable and commendable example of cooperation and sharing of best practices.

Learn more about Public Health Educators, Public Health Sanitarians, Environmental Health Careers, and Public Health Support Staff.