Road Salt Impacts on Water Quality in the Face of Climate Change in the ADK
We readily recognize the insult that spreading road salt has on our land and waters in winter – Is there a connection with Harmful Algal Blooms that occur in roadside seasons later? Preliminary evidence suggests this is occurring. The Fall 2022 ADK Semester Cohort will sample roadside and remote lakes across the region to gain the data needed to test the hypothesis that Harmful Algal Blooms are linked to winter road management practices, which opens a larger discussion on the interplay of our relationship with the natural environment and how it may change with a changing climate.
Instructor: Michael Twiss, PhD, Professor & Chair, Department of Biology
Course Objectives:
o Test a scientific hypothesis by gathering primary field data and conducting analyses.
o Communicate findings to stakeholders.
o Recognize the connections among public safety, water quality, and climate change and the interplay of policies.
The Adirondack Semester is a 15-credit, off-campus domestic study program for undergraduates pursuing an experience that is enriching both academically and culturally. Students from any major who are committed to learn about environmental science, policy, economics and the human history and contemporary issues of the Adirondack region are encouraged to apply.
Applications are due April 1st.
