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Tag: environmental science

  • Scientists Uncover the Massive Fish Species Lurking in the Depths of the Great Lakes

    Scientists Uncover the Massive Fish Species Lurking in the Depths of the Great Lakes

    Beneath the vast waters of the Great Lakes, researchers are gaining new insights into some of the largest and most fascinating fish species inhabiting one of the world’s largest freshwater ecosystems.

    Recent scientific studies and conservation efforts have focused on tracking and understanding these underwater giants, many of which have survived for decades in the deep, cold waters of the Great Lakes. Researchers are using advanced technologies, including acoustic tagging, sonar systems, and underwater monitoring equipment, to better understand the behavior, migration patterns, and habitats of these remarkable creatures.

    Among the species drawing attention are large lake sturgeon, muskellunge, and other native fish that can grow to impressive sizes and play important roles in maintaining ecological balance.

    Conservationists say the research is helping uncover valuable information about how these fish adapt to environmental changes, reproduce, and interact with their ecosystems.

    The lake sturgeon, in particular, has become a symbol of conservation efforts throughout the Great Lakes region. Some individuals can live for more than a century and reach lengths exceeding two meters, making them among the largest freshwater fish in North America.

    Scientists note that many of these species faced severe population declines in previous decades due to overfishing, habitat destruction, and pollution. However, restoration programs and stricter environmental protections have contributed to gradual recovery in several areas.

    The Great Lakes, which span parts of Canada and the United States, support a diverse range of aquatic life and provide drinking water, transportation routes, and economic benefits to millions of people.

    Researchers say studying large fish populations can offer important clues about the overall health of freshwater ecosystems and the impact of climate change on aquatic environments.

    Advancements in monitoring technology have allowed scientists to observe fish movements and behaviors in greater detail than ever before, revealing previously unknown aspects of life beneath the lakes’ surface.

    Environmental groups are using the findings to support conservation initiatives aimed at protecting critical habitats and ensuring the long-term survival of native species.

    The growing interest in these underwater giants has also helped raise public awareness about the ecological importance of the Great Lakes and the need for continued stewardship of freshwater resources.

    Experts emphasize that healthy fish populations contribute to biodiversity, recreational opportunities, and the overall resilience of aquatic ecosystems.

    As research continues, scientists hope to uncover even more secrets hidden within the depths of the Great Lakes, shedding light on some of North America’s most extraordinary freshwater species.

    The discoveries highlight both the richness of the region’s natural heritage and the importance of ongoing conservation efforts to protect these remarkable underwater giants for future generations.

    Swifteradio.com

  • Exploring Environmental Science & Water Quality with Marquette’s Outreach Program

    a row of bottles filled with liquid sitting on a shelf

    Project Water Expands Science Career Possibilities for Milwaukee Public School Students

    For two weeks this fall semester, Christina Lim and Sophie Bridwell carefully gathered their microbiology lab equipment, placed it securely in their vehicles, and drove to Milwaukee Public Schools’ Audubon Technology and Communication High School. Their mission: to educate students about the importance of water quality and introduce them to the world of science. This initiative is part of “Project Water,” an educational outreach program aimed at high schools in the Milwaukee Public School (MPS) system that lack sufficient lab equipment or dedicated science rooms.

    Christina Lim, a lab manager in Marquette’s Department of Biological Sciences, and Sophie Bridwell, a Ph.D. candidate in microbiology, see this experience as a way to inspire a new generation about the importance of clean water and environmental microbiology. With only a few chairs and tables provided, Lim and Bridwell set up the same lab equipment they use in their Ph.D. and graduate programs to conduct labs for the high school students. Twice a week, they teach three classes a day to around 80 students.

    “By teaching them basic microbiology and water quality testing, it introduces the students to new areas that they didn’t know anything about but may have great interest in,” Bridwell says.

    In the labs, students tested water quality, including taking local water samples and testing for lead contamination. They also attended field trips to Jones Island Water Reclamation Plant and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s School of Freshwater Sciences. At Jones Island, students learned about waste management, engineering, and plumbing. At the School of Freshwater Sciences, they explored natural systems and an academic research environment.

    “We were able to show the students that this profession is very much in the realm of possibility if that’s what they choose to pursue down the road,” Lim says.

    Although the program focuses on educating high school students about water quality issues, the larger aim is to expose students to science lab work and the opportunities available to them after graduation.

    “It’s important for people to see that science doesn’t happen in a white ivory tower — you don’t need to be from a certain background or from a certain demographic,” Lim says. “Scientists come in different types and it’s important for them to see that science is accessible to them.”

    Project Water began in 2015 with funding secured by Kiana Yang, a postdoctoral researcher in the Opus College of Engineering, and Dr. Krassi Hristova, a professor of biological sciences in the Klingler College of Arts and Sciences. In 2019, Dr. Chris Marshall, an assistant professor of applied and environmental microbiology, joined the effort until the pandemic paused the program in 2020.

    Last fall, Marshall helped revive the program with Hristova and new funding from the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District. In 2023, Marshall took over the program, which is now organized and based out of his lab.

    “Project Water doesn’t just focus on water quality issues,” Marshall says. “It’s also trying to expose the students to the world of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) and the possibility of a career within it.”

    source: today.marquette.edu

  • Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Policy – Clarkson University News

    woman holding laboratory appratus

    The most pressing environmental issues today—from greenhouse gas emissions to the overuse of disposable plastics—stem from human decisions. Addressing these issues requires a deep understanding of both the scientific and policy aspects that impact our planet.

    Clarkson University’s Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Sustainability provides a comprehensive background in relevant laws, history, ethics, chemistry, biology, groundbreaking technologies, and sustainable practices. Customize your studies with a concentration based on potential career paths: environmental health and safety, environmental science, environmental policy, or sustainable solutions.

    This interdisciplinary degree reflects today’s multipronged approach to sustainability—one that preserves the natural world, supports biodiversity, and balances human impact with protection of the planet we all share.

    Our program is tight-knit, rigorous, and designed to tailor the curriculum to your interests. The coursework emphasizes sustainability and hands-on experience through projects, starting from your first year of studies. In your final year, complete a capstone project exploring your research interests. A variety of minors helps round out your education.

    All students must participate in a co-op, internship, directed research, or a community project to graduate. Apply your knowledge in immersion experiences like the Adirondack Semester or a Global Business Program trip focused on socioeconomics and sustainable development in East Africa. Our world-class faculty frequently invite students to collaborate on research teams and mentor their projects.

    We pride ourselves on putting sustainability education into action. The major is offered through our Institute for a Sustainable Environment, a renowned cross-campus hub for education, research, and campus sustainability initiatives. We have been named one of the most environmentally responsible colleges in the country by The Princeton Review and one of the top 75 most eco-literate colleges by the Sierra Club. We have also received a gold rating from the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education.

    Our Environmental Science & Sustainability majors had a 100 percent placement rate in 2023.

    The bachelor’s in environmental science and sustainability requires 48 credit hours of core classes. The program begins with a common core exploring STEM applications to sustainability challenges, requires each student to hone a specialty through one of four concentrations, and adds flexibility through electives. Electives allow you to add a minor or double major in a related area like biology, project management, environmental engineering, political science, or psychology.

    Basic Science Courses Math Courses Environmental Science and Sustainability Courses Classes for your concentration (38-43 credits) and free electives (29-34 credits).

    The Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) concentration gives you the scientific and technical knowledge to identify environmental hazards, minimize their risks, and discover innovative solutions to improve our surroundings.

    The Environmental Science concentration delves into environmental research and impacts ecosystems. Prepare for a career as a conservation biologist, preserving biodiversity and conserving natural habitats.

    The Environmental Policy concentration shapes the future by influencing policies, laws, and regulations that drive sustainable change. Be a guiding force for corporations adopting eco-friendly practices and sustainable strategies.

    The Sustainable Solutions concentration integrates business, policy, social science, and technology for a better and more sustainable world.

    Apply your knowledge to faculty-led research projects, exploring topics like green energy policy, wetland restoration ecology, and the interactions between freshwater plankton and trace metal elements. Opportunities are open to undergraduates during the school year and summer sessions.

    Professional experience is a key component of the program. Choose between a co-op, internship, directed research, or community project. Learn more about co-ops and internships.

    In your final year, deliver a capstone project encompassing what you have learned. Projects have focused on topics like the effects of different agricultural practices on soil carbon and nitrogen stocks, community composting potential in Potsdam, and campus carbon sequestration analysis.

    Hands-on learning opportunities include the Adirondack Semester program, sustainability global travel courses, and other study-abroad options.

    Join a community of creators and innovators through Clarkson’s 200-plus student groups, including the Clarkson Sustainability Club, Engineers for International Sustainability, Garden Club, New York Water Environment Association, Clarkson University Outing Club, and more.

    Use elective credits to explore a subdiscipline or related area with a minor:

    • Environmental Health Science: Focus on the relationship between chemicals, waste, and human exposure.
    • Sustainable Energy Systems Engineering: Learn about the technical, environmental, and policy aspects of sustainable energy systems.
    • Sustainable Solutions for the Developing World: Bridge social equity, economic development, and environmental preservation.
    • Environmental Policy: Blend policy with environmental science.
    • Environmental Science: Explore ecology, sustainability, bioinformatics, microbiology, and hydrology.

    HAZWOPER training prepares workers for safe operations during scenarios involving hazardous substances. The 40-hour course covers policies, practices, and procedures to reduce injury and illness risks related to harmful exposures. The 8-hour refresher course is for those who have completed the 40-hour training.

    “I heard about Clarkson’s sustainability. I love the environment, and I thought Clarkson would ignite that passion and help me find my path in life.”

    • Elise DeVeau ’25

    The demand for environmental scientists and specialists is expected to grow over the next decade. Our students begin careers in public agencies, environmental organizations, state or federal government, education, environmental research, green companies, and more.

    Potential roles include:

    • Environmental Scientist
    • Conservation Biologist
    • Environmental Consultant
    • Sustainability Manager
    • Environmental Policy Analyst

    The curriculum also prepares students for graduate degrees in health sciences, including medicine, dentistry, or veterinary science.

    Our graduates have found success in both public and private sectors, with recruitment by various organizations, companies, and institutions. Many pursue advanced degrees through Clarkson’s own Environmental Science and Engineering MS and PhD programs and MBA program. Other graduate schools include:

    Request Info Apply Now Institute for a Sustainable Environment Email: ise@clarkson.edu Phone: 315-268-3856

    Interested in learning more about the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and Sustainability? Contact the Institute for a Sustainable Environment today with your questions.

    An interdisciplinary hub for faculty and students, the Institute for a Sustainable Environment focuses on environmental education, sustainable efforts, and research initiatives. It also houses a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs, including the environmental science and policy major.

    Institute for a Sustainable Environment Be part of the innovation that will lead us to a more sustainable future. If you see yourself making a difference as an environmental science and sustainability major at Clarkson University, take the next step.

    source: clarkson.edu