PRIMROSE

Predicting Risk and Impact of Harmful Events on the Aquaculture Sector

The aquaculture sector on Europe’s Atlantic Arc (AA) is negatively impacted by the effects of harmful blooms and microbial pathogens. We will build on existing systems developed by our previous award-winning, FP7 funded harmful algal bloom forecasting system 'ASIMUTH', conceived and implemented by this consortium.

This project will deliver:

>Improved forecasts with improved resolution
>A wider suite of parameters
>New index based risk assessment
>Encompass aquaculture from Shetland to Canary Islands

This improved forecast will include microbial risk and climate impacts, in addition to algal bloom predictions.

We will benefit from improved spatial resolution utilising new generation Sentinel data products for aquaculture production areas in Ireland, Scotland, England, Spain, Portugal and France. The transnational aspects of PRIMROSE will be developed through the implementation of a portal system using common best practice and methodologies and a joint front end. This new system will develop an easily understandable traffic-light risk index. Reporting procedures will be standardised, and partly automated for an expert evaluator to have information available to make an accurate forecast.

The market for our products includes policy makers, risk regulators, food safety authorities and the shellfish and fin-fish industry and will exploit existing EU investment in marine observing infrastructure.