The expansion of invasive Typha in Lake Ontario coastal wetlands has been linked to lake-level regulation implemented in the 1960's. Some water quality parameters, such as concentrations of macronutrients, are suspected to aid in the spread of Typha. Macronutrient concentrations may be influenced by the extent of riparian buffers within wetland watersheds. To evaluate the possible effects of macronutrients, 24 Lake Ontario coastal wetlands consisting of three hydrogeomorphic types were sampled in June - August 2011. GIS software was used to quantify the riparian buffers and map sites. A controlled greenhouse experimental portion of the project will test the effects of varying concentrations of macronutrients and hydroperiod on Typha growth. Results will aid in the understanding of the relationships among macronutrient concentrations, extent of riparian buffers, and spread of Typha. These results may be of interest to stakeholders for management of watershed lands to curb the spread of Typha.
| Presenter: | Aaron Heminway (Graduate Student) |
|---|---|
| Topic: | Environmental Science |
| Location: | 122 Hartwell |
| Time: | 3:45 pm Session V |
