App presented at German exhibition

UW-Parkside Assistant Professor of Computer Science Dr. Derek Riley took part in an environmental presentation with Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences in Wolfenbuttel, Germany.

Every four years, German Bundespäsident Joachim Gauckthe opens the grounds at Castle Bellevue in Berlin for the Woche der Umwelt (Week of Environment). More than 200 exhibitors, selected from over 600 applicants, are part of the environmental exhibition presented by the German national foundation for environmental issues. The UW-Parkside/Ostfalia presentation highlighted mobile app technology for the prediction of algae toxins (HABs) in freshwater lakes.  

Development of the HAB app was directed by Dr. Riley and Dr. Hedda Sander of Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences as a joint effort involving students from both universities and the faculties of computer science, bio- and geosciences, and environmental sciences.

Algae toxins produced by cyanobacteria often present a health risk to the public in shallow freshwater lakes. Careful monitoring can be an expensive and time-consuming process. With the new Android app and a few simple tools, users can more accurately predict algae blooms and take precautionary measures.

Opening of the exhibition "Woche der Umwelt" by German Bundespäsident Joachim Gauck

(l to r): Ostfalia students Cora Rolfes and Thomas Eckel; Dr. Hedda Sander, Ostfalia; Dr. Derek Riley, UW-Parkside

Exhibition drew many visitors to Castle Bellevue, the seat of the Bundespräsident in Berlin

The UW-Parkside/Ostfalia display was one of the most popular at the exhibition