The day brought together researchers, students, and community partners to explore emerging challenges affecting coastal and recreational waters and their impacts on ecosystem and public health. The symposium featured keynote remarks on algal toxin risks in coastal waters and presentations on topics including nutrient pollution, antimicrobial resistance, harmful algal blooms, sea level rise, PFAS contamination, and microplastics. Speakers from universities, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations shared research and community perspectives on protecting water quality. The event concluded with a poster session and networking reception, providing attendees an opportunity to connect and discuss ongoing environmental health research.