Current Projects:
Past Projects:
The Pasquotank River Water Quality Assessment
Brian Thompson and Sam Chambers have completed a three year research into the water quality of the Pasquotank River. Tests include Ecoli, total coliform, pH, TDS, phosphates, nitrates, lead, dissolved oxygen, and conductivity, Brian and Sam routinely report their findings to local environmental and health related agencies.
Dismal Swamp Groundwater Project
Paula Forehand and Kenny Pimienta completed a four year study into the groundwater habits of the Dismal Swamp. This is a very hot topic as of late do to the excessive draining of wetlands in the Tidewater, VA region for land development. Paula and Kenny determine water levels, test for pH, conductivity, temperature, phosphate, nitrate, and other trace metals. Kenny and Paula monitor and maintain 6 shallow wells on the site and record the overall healthiness of the environment. Due to the the recent severity of this past hurricane season Kenny and Paula are recording a drastic change in the water chemistry.
Sid Etheridge is kicked off the inaugural year last 1999 of this exciting program. Sid visited elementary and middle schools in the Elizabeth City area and developing a partnership in which our lab will become an open resource for those students interested in the sciences, especially geology and environmental science. Sid performed in-class work-shops and demonstrations of certain instruments. He is also developing techniques that will improve the delivery of scientific concepts.
Microbiology of Water & Soil Resources
Uyless Dewberry completed his second year of testing ground and surface water in the Albemarle Region. In particular interest is water in drainage ditches and dead end canals. He has also focused on water testing in areas of recreational water use. This year Uyless has begun soil sampling and testing in Pasquotank and Camden Counties. In particular to determine the migration rates of E. coli from septic tank drainage lines.
Dismal Swamp Mapping Project
Sam Chambers and Brian Thompson mapped the ECSU property within the Great Dismal Swamp using remote sensing, GPS, and GIS technology. This venture will help future researchers by offering correct and exact mapping information on the swamp. Also this information will be used in conjunction with ongoing research to visually identify drainage ditches and areas of water loss in the Great Dismal Swamp.