In New Jersey, which department defines HAB criteria and tracks occurrence statewide under the One Health framework?

In New Jersey, which department defines HAB criteria and tracks occurrence statewide under the One Health framework?

• A. Local Health Departments
• B. Department of Environmental Protection
• C. Department of Health
• D. Department of Agriculture

Answer: (B)

Harmful algal blooms are an environmental condition that can affect human and animal health, so monitoring and establishing criteria falls under environmental and water quality oversight. In New Jersey, the Department of Environmental Protection leads the definition of HAB criteria and tracks their occurrence statewide, coordinating with other agencies to address environmental health within the One Health framework. While the Department of Health interprets these findings for public health advisories and protections, the official criteria and statewide tracking come from the Department of Environmental Protection. Local health departments and the Department of Agriculture have regional or sector-specific roles, but the statewide HAB criteria and monitoring are managed by DEP.

Harmful algal blooms are an environmental condition that can affect human and animal health, so monitoring and establishing criteria falls under environmental and water quality oversight. In New Jersey, the Department of Environmental Protection leads the definition of HAB criteria and tracks their occurrence statewide, coordinating with other agencies to address environmental health within the One Health framework. While the Department of Health interprets these findings for public health advisories and protections, the official criteria and statewide tracking come from the Department of Environmental Protection. Local health departments and the Department of Agriculture have regional or sector-specific roles, but the statewide HAB criteria and monitoring are managed by DEP.