Biosystems & Agricultural Engineering

I use applied research to address issues in the natural resources community, particularly in the field of ecosystem restoration as it applies to streams impacted by urban, agricultural, and mining activities; stormwater management; mined land reclamation; and riparian zone management. Currently, my students and I are examining methods to improve instream water quality through novel stream restoration techniques; investigating the influence of bulk density on runoff in urban landscapes; exploring alternative uses of stormwater; and evaluating the influence of the Forestry Reclamation Approach on water quality and hydrology on mined lands. My extension efforts are centered on sharing research findings with stakeholders. I use methods such as the use of outdoor classrooms to enhance STEM and environmental education. I teach courses on stream restoration, low impact development, and mined land reclamation, and I direct the Stream and Watershed Science Graduate Certificate.

Keywords: Stream Restoration, Stormwater Management, Mined Land Reclamation, STEM/Environmental Education, Best Management Practices, Conservation, Water Quality