The Lake Ōmāpere Algae Bloom Report (Jan–Mar 2024) provides a satellite-based assessment of water quality using the Normalized Difference Chlorophyll Index (NDCI). The report tracks changes in chlorophyll levels, offering insights into algal activity and overall lake health. By analyzing environmental shifts over time, this data supports better conservation and management efforts for one of New Zealand’s key inland water bodies.

This report utilizes NDCI (Normalized Difference Chlorophyll Index) to measure chlorophyll levels, a crucial indicator of water quality and algal growth.

The primary goal is to identify and assess water quality trends by detecting increases or decreases in chlorophyll concentration. This helps determine potential risks such as algal blooms, pollution events, or ecological imbalances.

• Monitoring Period: January 1 – March 31, 2024
• Runs Conducted: 7 monitoring runs
• Significant Changes: 13 detected (positive NDCI shifts)
• Total Positive Changes: 34
• Total Negative Changes: 8
• Excluded Data: 5 cloud-related anomalies, 1 non-permanent change, 1 small-area change
• Largest Affected Area: 1,870.14 ha (Feb 5, 2024)

This report provides valuable insights for various stakeholders:

• Environmental Conservationists: Enables proactive measures to prevent harmful algal blooms.
• Water Resource Managers: Supports decision-making for lake health monitoring and intervention.
• Local Authorities & Policy Makers: Helps shape sustainable water management policies.
• Research & Academia: Offers high-resolution data for studies on climate impact and water ecosystems.

By leveraging satellite-derived chlorophyll analysis, this report plays a vital role in protecting and managing New Zealand’s freshwater resources.