Undergraduate Researcher return to map return to student search
Hometown:
Caldwell,
ID
US
(Canyon County)
School:
College of Idaho
Undergraduate student
Biomedical Sciences
Funded by EPSCoR Award:
ICREWS | OIA-2242769
Research Location(s):
Boise River, Indian Creek, Esther Simplot Park, More's Creek, Barber Park
COUNTIES: Ada, Boise
LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT(S): District 15, District 16, District 17, District 8
Research Statement:
I want to use my knowledge of microscopy, plastic identification, and sediment analysis to investigate contaminants affecting Idaho’s water systems and contribute to the development of a baseline database for future comparison of contaminant concentrations. I am interested in protecting the health of freshwater ecosystems and understanding how pollutants influence aquatic environments. Through my training as a biomedical sciences undergraduate with experience in the medical field and environmental research, I have cultivated a strong passion for identifying and addressing contamination threats to our water resources. During my research with the Environmental Department, my focus was on quantifying and qualitatively analyzing microplastic concentrations in local rivers surrounding Boise, Idaho. This work contributed to establishing a yearly survey of microplastic abundance and evaluating spatial differences in contamination levels among river systems.
Research Impact:
The Idaho river microplastic study addresses the potential impacts and interactions between 1) increasing plastic pollution from human activities, 2) freshwater ecosystem health, and 3) the long-term availability and quality of Idaho’s water resources. By quantifying and characterizing microplastic concentrations within rivers surrounding Boise, this research contributes to the development of baseline data that can be used to monitor future changes in contamination levels. The findings from this study can support future conservation efforts, improve understanding of emerging pollutants in Idaho waterways, and help protect aquatic ecosystems that provide essential services for surrounding communities.