UMCES is working with the University of South Carolina Center for Oceans and Human Health to develop a work plan to help lead community engagement and research synthesis activities for the Community Engagement Core. The plan is envisioned to include stakeholder and researcher workshops to enhance two-way communication between community interests and the research communities. This will enhance the relevance and importance of the research to community needs, as well as improve awareness of issues related to pathogenic bacteria and toxic algae to local users.