Date of Award

August 2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Computer Science

First Advisor

Devarshi N. Patel

Abstract

Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) are a significant threat to aquatic ecosystems, public health, and local economies due to their production of toxins and negative impacts on water quality. This thesis investigates the correlations between cyanobacteria growth and environmental variables, including wind conditions, surface temperatures, and nutrient levels. This research uses machine learning and statistical modeling to predict HAB occurrences by analyzing these variables' historical and near real-time data. The findings indicate that wind speed, surface temperature, and nutrient levels influence cyanobacteria dynamics, with specific thresholds identified for predictive accuracy. The developed HAB predictive models and the graphical user interface (GUI) for HAB data visualization offer practical tools for early detection and management of adverse environmental and public health events. Future research will focus on refining these models by considering other environmental factors to enhance them.

Available for download on Sunday, August 23, 2026

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