MEXICO BIDS TO HOST THE 16TH INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE FOR THE STUDY OF HARMFUL ALGAE BLOOMS IN 2014

Mexico has had problems with harmful algae events; the frequency and intensity of harmful algae blooms have increased during the last few decades. For this reason, Mexican researchers of different institutions are interested in organizing the first International HAB Conference in our country (see official announcement ).

This proposal was presented by Dr. José Bustillos-Guzmán of CIBNOR and Dra. Christine Band-Schmidt of CICIMAR, who sent an application to Dr. Beatriz Reguera, the President of the ISSHA. The results of the votes will be announced during the next conference, which will be held at Hersonissos, Crete on 1–5 November, 2010. New Zealand and Turkey have also asked to host the 2014 meeting.

The interest of Mexican scientists in hosting the 16th Conference is to update and improve our HAB research activities, involve more students in the study of HAB, generate greater awareness in our government about the importance of monitoring programs for social, tourist, and health benefits of our society, as well as increase our participation with other specialists. We expect that 500 to 600 persons from many countries will participate.

Recently, the Sociedad Mexicana para el Estudio de las Floraciones Algales Nocivas-SOMEFAN (Mexican Society for the Study of Harmful Algae Blooms) was created. The interaction of the SOMEFAN with the International Society for the Study of Harmful Algae will help to strengthen our society.