A scientific consensus was reached in 2003 by experts from various organizations on the relationship between eutrophication and harmful algal blooms (HABs). The consensus includes seven key statements: 1) Degraded water quality from increased nutrient pollution promotes HAB development and persistence. 2) The composition, not just the total quantity, of the nutrient pool impacts HABs. 3) High-biomass blooms require exogenous nutrients to be sustained. 4) Both chronic and episodic nutrient delivery promote HAB development. 5) New tools and techniques are improving HAB detection and prediction. 6) Experimental studies are critical for understanding nutrient roles in HABs. 7) Managing nutrient inputs can significantly reduce HABs. The report highlights that nutrient pollution is a major driver of HABs, with examples from various regions showing increased HABs linked to nutrient loading. Nutrient composition, such as the ratio of nitrogen to silicon, influences HAB species. High-biomass blooms depend on external nutrients, and both chronic and episodic nutrient inputs contribute to HAB development. Advances in technology are improving detection and prediction of HABs. Experimental studies are essential for understanding nutrient impacts on HABs. Managing nutrient inputs to watersheds can significantly reduce HAB occurrences. The report emphasizes the need for continued research and management strategies to address the complex interactions between nutrients, HABs, and environmental factors.A scientific consensus was reached in 2003 by experts from various organizations on the relationship between eutrophication and harmful algal blooms (HABs). The consensus includes seven key statements: 1) Degraded water quality from increased nutrient pollution promotes HAB development and persistence. 2) The composition, not just the total quantity, of the nutrient pool impacts HABs. 3) High-biomass blooms require exogenous nutrients to be sustained. 4) Both chronic and episodic nutrient delivery promote HAB development. 5) New tools and techniques are improving HAB detection and prediction. 6) Experimental studies are critical for understanding nutrient roles in HABs. 7) Managing nutrient inputs can significantly reduce HABs. The report highlights that nutrient pollution is a major driver of HABs, with examples from various regions showing increased HABs linked to nutrient loading. Nutrient composition, such as the ratio of nitrogen to silicon, influences HAB species. High-biomass blooms depend on external nutrients, and both chronic and episodic nutrient inputs contribute to HAB development. Advances in technology are improving detection and prediction of HABs. Experimental studies are essential for understanding nutrient impacts on HABs. Managing nutrient inputs to watersheds can significantly reduce HAB occurrences. The report emphasizes the need for continued research and management strategies to address the complex interactions between nutrients, HABs, and environmental factors.