Abstract
Paleolimnology is used to infer past environmental conditions in and around aquatic systems. Such studies are usually based on meticulous analyses of sediment cores. Our research team collects the archival remains of algae (particularly diatoms) and other indicators that serve as robust indicators of conditions that existed in a water body. These remains uncover the histories of lakes and rivers, providing insight relevant to land and water management issues. I use case examples of recent eutrophication and climate change to illustrate how our research team uses these microscopic biological tools in the Laurentian Great Lakes. Some of our key methods, and the value of those techniques in tracking long-term changes in aquatic systems and their watersheds, will be presented. The importance of paleolimnological data for management decisions associated with major environmental issues will become apparent.
Speaker Bio
Euan’s research team focuses on algal indicators of human impacts, with particular applications to cultural eutrophication, harmful algal blooms, hydrologic manipulation, invasive species, and climate change. A recent focus has been the development and application of methods to assess the effectiveness of ballast water treatment technologies on the control of algae and other microscopic, freshwater organisms. https://nrri.umn.edu/faculty-staff/euan-reavie-phd