Managing Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) remains a critical global challenge, and the 2014 Toledo Water Crisis elevated this challenge to become one of the most pressing Great Lakes water quality concerns. While traditional algaecides and physical controls have long been the standard approach, the landscape of mitigation is rapidly evolving. Join Cleveland Water Alliance and the Great Lakes Commission HABs Collaborative for a deep dive into the next generation of HAB mitigation technology with industry experts and innovators.
“The State of HAB Mitigation” is a series of interactive panel discussions that engage cross-sector experts in an exploration of approaches to managing the causes and impacts of Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs). Topics in this free, virtual forum will range from emerging technology trends to the impacts of different management methods. Presented by Great Lakes Commission and Cleveland Water Alliance, this series aims to demystify HABs for the public and empower managers with knowledge about the next generation HAB mitigation tools.
Kendall Byrd is the CEO of Caddis Technologies and a Ph.D. candidate at The Ohio State University, specializing in autonomous systems, environmental monitoring, and cyanobacteria mitigation. His research spans microbiome analysis, UV-C disinfection technologies, and the integration of aerial and aquatic drones for environmental preservation.
Mr. Byrd holds a master’s degree in Environmental Science and a bachelor’s degree in Biology with minors in Mathematics and Chemistry. His work has contributed to innovative approaches for remote sensing and treatment of harmful algal blooms using unmanned systems.
He is a recipient of multiple innovation and commercialization awards, including the Ohio State Accelerator Award, TVSF Phase II grant, USEC Business Pitch Competition, and the OSU Concept to Contract Grant. Through Caddis, he leads the development of non-chemical, AI-integrated water treatment solutions designed to restore and protect freshwater ecosystems.
Industrial engineer, built an advanced material company with $175M in sales to the US Military. Early-stage tech founder and investor in water conservation and HVAC energy savings tech. Proven track record in International Business Development and Manufacturing Operations.
Lawrence is a revenue driven, experienced operative, blending mechanical and electrical engineering skills, refined over decades of aggressive pursuit of a vibrant career seasoned with entrepreneurial business pursuits. His career has been primarily focused on designing, prototyping and manufacture of innovative scientific and commercial environmental flavored products and systems, purposefully developed to target a profitable niche market; whilst orchestrating cost effective corporate strategies from the boardroom. His forte includes forensic analysis of existing business-related environmental methods and operations, with a view to improving profitability.
This technology enhanced knowledge-based platform, together with unrivaled computer abilities, postures Mr. Lambert to seamlessly integrate into most design and manufacturing facilities. Specialized procurement, purchasing, technical documentation, RFQ preparation and strategic bidding preparation complete his portfolio.
Amber Stilwell, Coastal Outreach Specialist working in the Lake Erie Region, joined Pennsylvania Sea Grant in August 2021. She is responsible for planning, developing, implementing, and evaluating regional outreach programs with a focus on healthy ecosystems and watershed restoration. Her main focus areas include aquatic invasive species and water quality in the Lake Erie and Ohio River watersheds. Additionally, Amber is responsible for coordinating the Penn State Extension Master Watershed Steward program in Erie, Crawford, and Warren Counties. The program launched in August of 2021 and continues to grow in popularity with volunteers and partnering organizations at the center. The focus areas of the Erie, Crawford, Warren program include invasive species outreach, native tree and shrub plantings, water quality monitoring, coordination with local watershed associations, and much more.
Prior to joining Pennsylvania Sea Grant, Amber was a Research Coordinator at the Regional Science Consortium in Erie, PA where she coordinated water quality research, restoration projects, and citizen science programs. Amber earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Mercyhurst University and Master of Science in Environmental Engineering from Gannon University.
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