Kent Merrill

Undergraduate Researcher   return to map   return to student search

Hometown:

Rupert, ID US
(Minidoka County)

School:

Idaho State University
Undergraduate student
Earth and Environmental Systems

Funded by EPSCoR Award:

ICREWS | OIA-2242769

Research Location(s):

Gibson Jack Watershed

COUNTIES:  Bannock

LEGISLATIVE DISTRICT(S):  District 29, District 28

Research Statement:

I look forward to continuing my learning to become a multifaceted expert in many of the layers of what constitutes our natural environment. I have an affection for water quality and how the organic and inorganic processes contribute to the health of water which ultimately impacts the ecosystem it provides for. By studying mountain springs, I am able to study both the water quality and its effects on the ecosystem.

Research Impact:

Mountain springs create a refugia for organisms throughout Southern Idaho's semi-arid climate and its dry summers. By understanding water sources, we can better predict areas that will contain a larger amount of biodiversity in both plants and animals. We can also predict how springs will be affected by the ever-changing climate. This research allows for a better understanding of mountain springs, the ecosystem it provides for, and the variability in water quality throughout the year.