[{"id":6072,"date":"2026-09-24T15:56:06","date_gmt":"2026-09-24T19:56:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/?page_id=6072"},"modified":"2026-09-24T15:57:49","modified_gmt":"2026-09-24T19:57:49","slug":"senior-projects-senior-abstracts-2025","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/senior-projects-senior-abstracts-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"Senior Abstracts: 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"

Title: Narratives of Justice: Investigating Environmental Injustices in Louisiana Creole Communities Through the Lens of Ouragan by Laurent Gaud\u00e9<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science, French
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Primarily located in the southern part of Louisiana, Creole communities are typically found in rural and plantation areas along the Mississippi River and prairie regions of the state. Communities like the Louisiana Creole are unjustly affected by different environmental catastrophes; these people are facing the consequences of environmental injustices. This is evident in case studies such as Cancer Alley, the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill, and Hurricane Katrina. The stories of individuals and communities in these marginalized groups during environmental catastrophes are oftentimes overlooked within academia and news coverage. As a result of this, fiction can play a crucial role in illuminating untold environmental injustices. Climate Fiction (Cli-Fi), a subgenre of Science Fiction, focuses on environmental injustices and climate change in the epoch when humans began affecting the environment. This project combines a literature review of real-life examples and a literary analysis of a French fiction novel to examine how fiction and reality can work together to aid in showing the untold stories of marginalized communities during environmental disasters. This project reviews the novel Ouragan [Hurricane] by Laurent Gaud\u00e9 to explore how climate fiction and reality can work together to shed light on injustices in Louisiana Creole communities.<\/p>\n

\n
Title: Green Roofs for a Sustainable Future: Promoting Energy Efficiency and Stormwater Management in Meadville<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Over the years, climate change has become a widely recognized issue that we as humanity must take responsibility for addressing. Two major issues that have contributed to the degradation of the environment are energy consumption, which increases the use of fossil fuels, and stormwater runoff, which contains pollutants and pollutes local waterways. Green roofs provide many benefits for reducing energy consumption and stormwater runoff. This paper will serve to investigate adding a green roof to the Victor Leap Building in Meadville and explore its feasibility regarding both its potential stormwater management and energy efficiency benefits. Data was collected from existing stormwater management research, Victor Leap Building energy consumption data, and plant selection for green roofs in similar climates. Results indicated that the green roof would significantly reduce stormwater runoff, capturing over half of the annual rainfall, while also lowering urban heat island and contributing to a cooler urban environment. Although the energy savings were modest due to the building’s insulation, the green roof\u2019s positive impact on stormwater management and local ecosystem sustainability was evidently clear.<\/div>\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
Title: Revolutionizing Sustainability: The Allegheny College Action Plan for Incentive Recycling<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Currently, there is an increasing concern over the management of plastic waste in the U.S. due to plastic being a major contributor in landfills and waste processing facilities. The disposal of plastic is a very complex subject since burying it in a landfill will take centuries to break down and burning it destroys material that could have otherwise been recycled, thus reducing the need for new raw material. Alternatively, recycling allows for efficient waste management and allows for economic opportunity. A branch of recycling that has emerged with great promise in promoting long-term sustainable waste management practices is known as incentive recycling. Incentive recycling is a process that allows users to actively participate in the recycling programs while being motivated by self-fulfillment and rewards. This paper reviews the effectiveness of incentive-based programs, such as reverse recycling vending machines, and how they may be replicated in the Allegheny College campus community to encourage recycling initiatives and reduce the plastic waste generated.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Investigating the relationships between forest management strategy and terrestrial salamander populations in Northwestern Pennsylvania<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Amphibian species are facing a decline as global anthropogenic impacts continue to progress. This is due to amphibians being climatically sensitive, and as a result, they are intolerant to environmental changes in temperature and moisture. In this study, we sought to investigate the relationship between different forest management strategies and terrestrial amphibian populations. This study was conducted in Northwestern Pennsylvania at three properties throughout the area. Collection methods included visual encounter surveys. The motivation behind this project was to provide insight into other potential stressors that terrestrial amphibians may face, while also looking at better ways to manage forests so as to keep biodiversity and amphibian populations intact. Among our surveys, 4 different species were captured. These were Eastern redback salamanders (Plethodon cinereus), Eastern newts (Notopthalmus viridenscens), 4-toed salamanders (Hemidactylium scutatum), and slimy salamanders (Plethodon glutinosus). Across these 4 species, we saw an overall trend towards higher densities and higher richness at our unmanaged forest stand (Bousson), than at the other two sites with active and passive forest management. We saw that there were no notable differences between the three sites when it came to body condition for eastern redback salamanders, however total length (mm) and mass (g) were highest at the actively managed stand compared to the unmanaged and passively managed stands. Our research holds implications for the maintenance of Northwest Pennsylvania amphibian populations, as well as future sustainable forest management strategies not only for our study area, but for the rest of the world as well.<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Watered Down: Exploring Hydroperiod Dynamics and Amphibian Abundance in Vernal Pools at Three Properties in Northwest Pennsylvania<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Woodland amphibians, such as spotted salamanders and wood frogs, reproduce by laying their eggs in temporary bodies of water (i.e. vernal pools) and germinating them. This process, which starts in the early spring, lasts until the end of summer to produce juvenile amphibians. Vernal pools, a habitat devoid of predators, creates ideal breeding grounds for woodland amphibians. However, these vernal pools eventually dry, and if it dries with undeveloped eggs, those potential juvenile amphibians die. Understanding the relationship between the hydroperiod of these pools and where the amphibians decide to reproduce is important. The objectives of this study were to examine the link between the hydroperiod of vernal pools to the breeding effort within those pools. Several pools at three different sites in Northwestern Pennsylvania were surveyed repeatedly from late winter to late summer, taking note of egg masses and the water level of the pool. It was found that amphibians lay their eggs in pools with higher hydroperiod indices exponentially more than pools with lower hydroperiod indices.<\/div>\n
\n
Title: An Analysis of Greta Thunberg’s Fridays for Future Campaign using Social Media as a Tool for Environmental Justice Movements<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Since the dawn of social media its utility has grown exponentially with networks like Instagram, Facebook, and X, being indispensable aspects of daily life. Social media has become an incredibly useful tool in recent years, where people use it to spread a wide range of information, including perspectives about politics. Politics and social justice movements have gone hand in hand given the political atmosphere trends as of late, with a rise in conservatism. Given the lack of political momentum that Washington D.C. has provided to tackling the growing Climate Crisis, younger generations have used social media to collect and advocate for the Environment. A notable case that highlights the influence of social media is the rise to fame of Greta Thunberg, a Swedish political activist known for her group Fridays for Future (FFF). People are using social media with environmental movements as a call to action for everyday people. This is an incredible tool as public demand creates an extreme amount of pressure on politicians to side with the majority of citizens if they want to be reelected. I plan to conduct a literature review and content analysis on the use of social media as a political tool; specifically looking deeper into Greta Thunberg and the Fridays for Future movement, that centered around Generation Z.<\/div>\n
\n
Title: The breaking down of a city built on the ruins of Aztec emperors: Mexico City Reimagining a future built around green infrastructure<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Mexico City is home to millions of people and lies over the ruins of the rich Aztec culture. The city for years now has been facing issues of subsidence and sinking of buildings into the ground due to the rapid pumping of groundwater. The city\u2019s infrastructure was never equipped to face such burdens and as a result, we see the slow degradation of Mexico City. Mexico City is faced with a crisis of trying to come up with fast term solutions to provide water and maintain buildings functional, with limited time and resources. This project assesses and gathers information on the current infrastructure hurdles that Mexico City is facing due to the water crisis it has long been going through. I examine the history of the city, how it was built, where the infrastructure choices made went wrong, and analyze potential green infrastructure methods that can be implemented to help Mexico City overcome some of the challenges that it has been facing. Rebuilding infrastructure in a city as big as Mexico City is a challenge already, so this project explores whether it is feasible to incorporate green infrastructure into new and current building designs to not only help deal with the current water crisis, but to also create building designs that promote sustainability, energy efficiency, and resource maximization.<\/div>\n
\n
\n
Title: Lawns Be Gone: Feasibility Study at Allegheny College Meadville, Pennsylvania<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Urbanization is increasing the amount of land covered by turf or lawns. Lawns have long been associated with American infrastructure. They provide us with a dense and soft coverage that provides appealing aesthetics and potential for recreation or relaxation. Besides all the benefits lawns provide, their benefits are far outweighed by their negative environmental implications. The conventional lawn is a mix of non-native ornamental grasses which require a vast amount of inputs in maintenance, water, and chemicals, to maintain an aesthetically appealing appearance. This worsens water shortages in arid environments, contributes to air and water pollution, and reduces ecological function. However our cultural connection to lawn is very deeply rooted so finding a sustainable alternative that replicates the functionality and aesthetics of common turf grass is essential to creating a practical solution. Allegheny College is situated in the suburb of Meadville Pennsylvania and utilizes conventional turf lawns in their own landscape design. In this study I explored the feasibility of replacing conventional turf grass with a more sustainable alternative. Through site assessment, stakeholder input, and ecological evaluation, I identified native plant species that support biodiversity and align with the college’s sustainability goals. The findings highlight the potential benefits of native landscaping, and the proposed plan provides a framework for implementation and long-term management of two suitable seed mixes from Ernst Conservation Seeds.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Title: Impacts of Outdoor Spaces on College Campuses: Literature Review and Allegheny College Design Proposal<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Outdoor environments have been shown to positively affect the well being of individuals that interact with it. Identifying how outdoor spaces not only improve student well being but the campus as a whole is the focus of my project. Findings indicate that it can improve the aesthetics, community building as well as retention and student satisfaction. After identifying the positives of outdoor spaces on campus, my project focuses on direct features of an effective campus space including; seating, location, forms of recreation and teaching opportunities. Then, I identified other outdoor spaces and applied my research to assess the effectiveness of each of these spaces and directly apply them to my own project proposal. This proposal took the form of a SketchUp rendering. Which scaled Allegheny College location into a software, this imaging supports the ideas that I identified and learned about along this process. My hope is that this project finds enthusiastic and interested ears that can appreciate the value of a new outdoor space on the campus of Allegheny College.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Effects of land use on the concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus in streams in northwestern PA<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Excess nitrogen and phosphorus in the stream ecosystem has caused eutrophication leading to hypoxia, especially in Lake Erie. Although there are policies and practices that have been implemented over the years to mitigate the excess nutrients seeping from the land into watersheds surrounding Lake Erie, concentrations are still on the rise; with increased eutrophication as a result. The differing land covers in North Western Pennsylvania have led to different amounts of nitrogen and phosphorus concentration in its surrounding watersheds.The land cover responsible for the most increase in phosphorus and nitrogen concentrations in Pennsylvania is said to be farming. This is due to the use of fertilizers and manure in crop fields however, the results comparing farming land cover percentage to nitrogen and phosphorus concentration showed a decline in both as farming land percentage in the watershed increased. Nitrogen and phosphorus, as well as other pollutants, in Pennsylvania also come from urban areas in septic waste, and stormwater which accumulate on the impermeable surfaces that dominate these urban areas. While the average concentration of nitrogen increased with larger areas of development, the average phosphorus concentration decreased. The phosphorus concentration was expected to increase as well due to the fact that most of the N and P in the developed environment is believed to come from fertilizers. The forested watershed results were also inconclusive; as phosphorus concentrations increased with increased forested area and nitrogen concentrations decreased slightly.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Creating a Field Guide to Bousson<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Studio Art, Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Bousson Environmental Research Reserve is an important natural area owned by Allegheny College and has been the focus of research and coursework; however, the ecosystem lacks a field guide. Guides are an important tool for identification and can help promote a better understanding of species, but often, guides lack the ability to show the interconnectedness of an ecosystem. Therefore, creating a field guide to Bousson that illustrates the species’ relationship with one another can close the gap and help readers better understand an ecosystem as a whole. A Bousson field guide can also provide faculty and students with an understanding of what species are present and their connection to the ecosystem. Highlighting the ecosystem of Bousson while honing researchers\u2019 identification skills will help display more deeply why the ecosystem is uniquely important.<\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: An Assessment Of The Current and Future Economic Impact of the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid on Northwestern Pennsylvania<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) is an invasive species native to Japan that weakens and can eventually kill eastern hemlock trees. HWA has spread across much of the eastern United States and can be found in every county of Pennsylvania. The presence of this invasive insect could cause economic disturbances and hurt industries that rely on hemlock trees for a portion of their revenue. This study specifically focuses on northwestern Pennsylvania within the range of the counties pictured in Figure 1 on page 1 of the paper. In order to determine the scope of current or potential economic damage caused by the HWA, experts in the northwestern Pennsylvania lumber, forestry, and eco-tourism industries were contacted. Based on the responses of the industry experts, HWA does not currently have a large impact on the forest product or eco-tourism industries although it has the potential to severely impact these industries in the future if it is not managed effectively.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: The Climate Cost of Indifference : Pakistan\u2019s Battle against Policy Failures and Global Neglect<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Pakistan is living through the climate crisis in real time. From floods that erase entire communities to heat waves that make cities unlivable, the country has become a symbol of climate injustice\u2014suffering some of the world\u2019s most devastating environmental impacts despite contributing almost nothing to the problem. This thesis asks a hard question: what happens when a country already facing political instability and economic fragility is also left alone to face a crisis it didn\u2019t create?<\/div>\n
Through an in-depth analysis of Pakistan\u2019s climate policies, like the National Climate Change Policy (NCCP) and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), this research reveals a landscape of ambition on paper, but inertia in practice. Corruption, poor governance and top-down planning have blocked real progress, while vulnerable communities, especially women, minorities and rural populations, are excluded from the decisions that affect them most. At the global level, the story is just as bleak. Wealthy nations have made lofty promises about climate finance, but what Pakistan receives is tangled in red tape, buried in loans, and far too little, far too late. As climate migration increases and entire regions become uninhabitable, the lack of timely international support raises serious questions about global accountability and justice.<\/div>\n
This thesis doesn\u2019t just highlight what\u2019s broken, it proposes how to fix it. From realistic renewable energy pathways to community-driven adaptation and climate finance reform, the recommendations point toward a model of resilience built on transparency, inclusion, and long-term vision. Climate change isn\u2019t just a science problem or a policy problem, it\u2019s a justice problem. Pakistan stands at the intersection of all three.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Overflowing with opportunity: Investigating case studies of stormwater management in Meadville, PA and Fallsburg, NY<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science, Spanish
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>As the climate crisis intensifies, communities located in humid regions are more likely to face increased precipitation and extreme flooding or stormwater events. Factors such as poverty levels and racial minority populations can also amplify the disparate challenges a community experiences in the face of such events. It is therefore critical to assess how local communities prepare infrastructure that mitigates the effects of such events and builds climate resilience, especially within the context of other existing inequities. This study examines two small towns \u2013 Meadville, PA and Fallsburg, NY \u2013 located in humid regions with notable populations of low-income and Hispanic\/ Latino residents (respectively). This research aims to understand how these small communities utilize policy and planning to mitigate stormwater issues and, by extent, climate change. The emphasis on small communities is intentional, as there is less literature on small and mid-sized cities in comparison to large metropolitan areas. In order to complete the research goals, three policies or plans related to stormwater and\/ or climate were selected per town, and placed against a systematic policy assessment framework designed to examine factors such as ecological, social, financial, and sustainability concerns. As a result, Meadville had slightly more intersectional awareness across these categories about how stormwater, climate change, and planning for both of these issues are linked, both in terms of where problems and potential sustainable solutions emerge. However, both towns demonstrated awareness of the critical need to address stormwater issues, especially as a means of protecting water quality and ecosystem health. Chapter 4, La representaci\u00f3n del cambio clim\u00e1tico en la prensa de Meadville, PA y Fallsburg, NY (2022 a 2024) examines the local newspapers of each case study community in order to examine how issues related to climate change are represented and reacted to by readers. This chapter synthesizes newspaper articles written in the Spanish and English languages from the Sullivan County Democrat \/ Hoy en Sullivan and the Meadville Tribune. Overall, this study contributes an interdisciplinary policy assessment framework coupled with local media communications analysis that can be utilized to study other small towns and build awareness of stormwater and climate change planning across different communities.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Vail’s Effects on Mountain Towns and Community<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Large ski resort companies, like Vail, have significant negative impacts on the mountain town communities where they own resorts. These companies drive up housing prices, displace local residents, and monopolize economic opportunities\u2013 creating competition between locally- owned and corporate owned businesses, and creating seasonal job instability for locals. These impacts circulate around issues of affordability, crowding, and displacement, and much research exists concerning these direct impacts. However, little has been done to understand the impacts on local culture, sense of place, and \u201cvibe\u201d in these communities. This project looks to acknowledge and analyze these community impacts by interviewing locals from Colorado mountain towns such as Breckenridge, Crested Butte, and Durango. These interviews ask locals about their experiences with Vail, their experiences within their town, and their perceptions of community\u2013 hoping to bring forward strategies to diminish the negative impacts of Vail and strengthen senses of community. The results of this research brought socially- driven solutions to the forefront of community and local culture preservation strategies. These solutions specifically drive that implementing stronger protections, resistance, and education are likely to be the most effective remedies in prioritizing the communities of these mountain towns.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Is the pool too salty or acidic? Effects of precipitation on small pool chemistry at Busson.<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Vernal pools are temporary pools of water that serve as important breeding grounds for a number of amphibian species. The vernal pools present in the glaciated region of northwestern Pennsylvania have not been thoroughly studied. At the same time the connection between acid rain and acidification of small water bodies has been somewhat overlooked. The site of this study is the Bousson Environmental Research Reserve, which is a regional hotspot for amphibian diversity. There are three pool clusters on site that are in different areas of the reserve, which gives us a geographic diversity. We collected data on; precipitation amount, and wetland pH and salinity. We found that there was some suggestion that precipitation impacts pH and salinity but there was not enough evidence to determine exactly how.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Chillin’ with the Seagulls: A GIS Analysis for Best Placement of Gull Shading Structures<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>As urban development and human recreation on beaches increase, many shorebird species, such as gulls, are relocating to alternative nesting sites like rooftops. These rooftops mimic aspects of their natural habitat, but during peak summer months (May to August), extreme heat events pose a significant risk to flightless young gulls, leading to high injury and mortality rates. To mitigate this, the use of rooftop shading structures has been proposed. In collaboration with Tamarack Wildlife Center, this study aims to identify optimal locations for installing shading structures on rooftops within a subsection of Erie, PA. Using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), this project analyzed multiple factors including solar radiation, proximity to past gull injury reports, proximity to impervious surfaces, roof slope, and roof area. Each criterion was ranked on a scale from 1 to 5 and combined to generate a cumulative suitability score for each building. The final output was a map classifying buildings from least (1) to most (5) suitable for shade installation. Five buildings received top suitability scores; all were industrial structures located along a major roadway in the study region. Upon closer inspection, only the highest-ranked building showed an existing gull colony, suggesting the model was effective, though the initial selection of the study region may need refinement. This research offers a framework for future studies to find most suitable placement for shading structures.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
Title: Effectiveness of Drones in Monitoring Plants of Which Goats are Tasked with Grazing<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>It is important to investigate the integration of drone technology with goat grazing practices, focusing on how drones can be employed to monitor goats and assess the vegetation they graze upon. Drawing from a multifaceted approach that includes interviews with farmers and goat ranchers, extensive literary research, and hands-on field studies with goats, this work explores the potential and challenges of using drones in agricultural and ecological contexts. I have found through my research that although there can be some complications with getting the drones to monitor the goats while they are in the field, drones should excel with being able to monitor the areas where the goats have grazed. This can be done by monitoring the fields and forests in which these goats graze.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Soil Organic Matter Across a Chronosequence of Cultivated Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum)<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) is an indigenous North American warm season grass developed as a perennial biofuel crop. Switchgrass cultivation has the potential to improve or protect certain soil properties, but there is mixed evidence on the effect of continuous switchgrass cultivation on soil organic matter (SOM). In this study, I collected soil and biomass samples from switchgrass stands of different ages (1-17 years) to investigate the effect of age, aboveground biomass (AGB), and belowground biomass (BGB) on SOM concentration and mass. SOM concentration had no correlation with stand age, and SOM mass was negatively correlated (R2=0.51) to stand age. BGB and total biomass displayed no correlation to stand age, though BGB and total biomass were lowest for the youngest stand. AGB was negatively correlated (R2=0.35) with stand age. AGB was positively correlated weakly with SOM concentration (R2=0.12) and more strongly with SOM mass (R2=0.88), despite annual AGB harvest. BGB was positively correlated with SOM concentration (R2=0.67; p=0.046) but not correlated with SOM mass. These results suggest that SOM and biomass respond to variation within sites and, although SOM was not shown to accumulate in older sites, the concentration of SOM was not found to be depleted over years of continuous switchgrass cropping. This work contributes to the evolving understanding of SOM dynamics under switchgrass and perennial cropping systems which will inform biogeochemistry modeling and agro-ecosystem management.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Should I stay or Should I go: Catastrophic drift and recolonization in streamside salamanders<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Our objective was to measure the rates of extinction and recolonisation after catastrophic streamflow events in the salamander populations of small headwater streams at the Bousson Environmental Research Reserve, as well as gaining a better understanding of the species present and the population dynamics of these stream salamanders. As temperature and precipitation patterns shift with climate change, these stream salamanders will face increased abiotic stress, the effects of which on their overall populations are not yet well known. Research on stream salamanders’ responses to these stressors could help understand what is needed for conservation going forward. During this study we found that the species composition of streams at Bousson was primarily dominated by Allegheny Mountain Dusky (Desmognathus ochrophaeus) and Northern Dusky salamanders (Desmonganthus fuscus). Low rainfall during the study period resulted in inconclusive results for many of the climatic factors we were looking at. We did find evidence that age classes react differently to climatic disturbances. Adult salamander density decreased with increasing rainfall as juvenile salamander density increased.<\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n

Title: Mission Massasauga: A GIS Multi-Criteria Evaluation<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>The Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake is a federally threatened species and a Pennsylvania state endangered species. Snakes provide a wide array of important ecosystem services, such as rodent population control and being umbrella species for sensitive habitats. Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnakes face a wide array of challenges, including habitat destruction and degradation, habitat fragmentation, disease, and negative human interactions. Due to this, species population numbers have been steadily declining. The PA Fish and Boat Commission set out to create a species action plan for the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake in order to prevent the species from becoming extant from the state. Said plan seeks to eventually reintroduce a population of rattlesnakes somewhere within the species historic range. This analysis focuses on finding suitable areas within that range large enough to house a population of 10 individuals. GIS fuzzy logic analysis was completed based on Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake habitat preferences and human-centered habitat constraints. From this, regions large enough to accommodate a robust population were identified. The study region spanned across 8 counties located in western Pennsylvania. The model identified 10 highly suitable regions large enough to support a new population, mostly concentrated in the Northeastern portion of the study region. Across the study region, only 8.9% of the area exhibited above average suitability. High levels of development and fragmentation highlight challenges in traveling to and from overwintering habitat and regular habitat. This habitat suitability model can be used in the conservation planning of this species within other regions of North America.<\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Quigley’s Rain Garden<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Global change is intensifying the hydrological cycle, leading to more frequent and extreme precipitation events, especially in the Northeastern United States. By the end of the century, monthly precipitation in the region is expected to increase by about an inch from December through April under high greenhouse gas emissions scenarios. Allegheny College, located in Meadville, Pennsylvania, experiences an average annual precipitation of 44.29 inches, contributing to significant stormwater runoff. This runoff carries pollutants like phosphorus, nitrogen, lead, and zinc into local waterways, degrading water quality. This study evaluates the effectiveness of rain gardens in managing stormwater and proposes installing one at Quigley Hall. GIS analysis determined the site has a surface runoff area of 0.51 acres, contributing approximately 34,480.9 gallons of stormwater during a 2-year, 24-hour storm event. Soil infiltration tests showed significant variation, with rates ranging from 0.04 inches per hour in compacted areas to 5.5 inches per hour in the most permeable zones. The proposed rain garden, spanning 2,268 square feet with a depth of 4 feet, would help control runoff, filter pollutants, and enhance biodiversity. Implementing this project would not only aid in stormwater management but also support the college\u2019s sustainability goals and contribute to Meadville\u2019s broader environmental efforts.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Solar Panels on Allegheny College-Owned Land<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Robertson Sports Complex can benefit from having solar panels. Not just for helping reduce the cost of electricity that is being used up there daily, But solar panels can bring more benefits. The solar array will be more accessible for students and professors and could get more of an educational purpose of seeing how solar panels function and what it takes to design them. Having solar panels on the grounds of Robertson will help allow the students to be able to observe solar panels in person and not only be looking at solar panels through screens also will not need students to go on far-field trips to solar panel farms when at Robertson to be able to be observed. Also, having solar panels at Robertson can show Allegheny\u2019s College\u2019s commitment to renewable energy by people from sporting events and other events at Robertson being able to see the solar panels visibly when they are there for their events.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Testing the Biotic Resistance Hypothesis: The Influence of Native Darter Diversity on Invasive Round Goby (Neogobius melanostomus) Performance in Experimental Stream Systems<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Biology, Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>The biotic resistance hypothesis (BRH) suggests that areas with higher native species diversity are more resistant to invasive species. This study examines biotic resistance as a potential mechanism limiting the success of the invasive Round Goby (Neogobius melanostomus) in the French Creek Watershed, Pennsylvania. Using artificial stream systems, we tested whether varying levels of native darter (Etheostoma and Percina spp.) diversity influence the growth, body condition, and behavior of gobies and darters. Experimental tanks housed a fixed fish density of two gobies and five darters under low-diversity (1 darter species) or high-diversity (5 darter species) treatments. Over a 12-day period, fish growth and body condition were measured as proxies for food acquisition, while underwater video recordings captured feeding behaviors and competitive interactions. I hypothesized that gobies would exhibit decreased growth and less aggressive behaviors in high-diversity tanks, consistent with the BRH. While no statistically significant trends in body or behavioral metrics were observed between treatment types, gobies did spend over 5 times fewer seconds in the open frame of the video recording than darters in high-diversity tanks (p = 0.039), but not in low-diversity tanks (p = 0.725), providing partial support for BRH. Additionally, gobies exhibited higher aggression rates than darters across both treatments, but this difference was only marginal (p = 0.066). We also find that gobies exhibit a more positive body condition change rate than darters across both treatments, indicating some physiological dominance of gobies. Although these results do not provide strong evidence for capturing the BRH, they do support previous findings of goby aggression and quick growth rate. Future research should consider additional ecological variables, such as habitat complexity, resource availability, and fish communities with increased functional diversity to better understand the mechanisms providing invasion resistance in the French Creek Watershed.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: From the Ground Up: Interviewing Food Forest Organizers in Pennsylvania<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Large-scale agriculture simultaneously exacerbates major environmental issues and food insecurity. Not only do people already have little access to food due to food apartheid (areas that have had their access to sufficient food systemically restricted or erased, directly relating to racism and oppression of marginalized communities\u2013which encompasses disabled people, BIPOC, religious minorities, and LGBTQIA2S+ people) but they also have little control over what they consume. Community food forestry (a form of permaculture that focuses on self-sustaining, food-producing plants) represents a potential way for these issues to begin to be addressed, as it can aid local communities in having access to a more diverse array of sustainably-produced food. However, literature surrounding community-led agricultural operations is largely limited to community gardens, while also having limited focus on Pennsylvania specifically. Thus, this study seeks to evaluate the potential of food forests as a means to address food insecurity, food apartheid, and food sovereignty through interviewing three organizers of community food forests in Pennsylvania. These organizers were asked questions pertaining to what public participation in their operations look like, how maintenance and upkeep are managed, and what potential barriers exist in maintaining them. Their answers demonstrated that while community involvement varies between operations, each operation is actively working to combat food insecurity and food apartheid in their respective communities. With this, the study shows that community-led agricultural operations like community food forests have the potential to make progress towards combating food insecurity and food apartheid while also contributing to communal food sovereignty movements.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: An Analysis of Northwestern Pennsylvania Beekeeping Challenges and Potential Solutions<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Honeybees are a vital part of nature and human life and are incredibly important pollinators. In recent years, the beekeeping industry has been rapidly declining due to climate change, changing weather patterns, and parasites. As these issues increase in severity, beekeepers find it more and more difficult to maintain healthy hives. Climate change can accelerate parasites and diseases, which pose a severe threat to honeybees. Many populations of species are declining severely due to issues such as changing climates and habitat loss. Population decline of honeybees in North America has been complex, with slow decline in some species and sharp declines in others. Seasonal shifts have been occurring in Northwestern Pennsylvania, leading to earlier springs and warmer winters. These changes in weather patterns have the potential to directly affect Northwestern Pennsylvania beekeepers and the health of their hives. To gain an understanding of these potentially damaging factors, beekeepers were surveyed through Google Forms, and a physical survey was distributed as well.. The survey was distributed to beekeepers of Northwestern Pennsylvania to understand the issues they are facing as well as methods they are taking to adapt to these changes. Through the responses received, it was found that climate change is only a mild concern amongst beekeepers, and there are very few beekeepers experiencing any negative effects on their hive productivity and survival.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Analyzing the Role of Japanese Knotweed (Reynoutria japonica) Density on River Otter (Lontra canadensis) Behavior at Latrines in Ohiopyle State Park<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> North American river otters (Lontra canadensis), are a valuable species that can indicate the health of ecosystems. After years of population reduction from over-hunting, significant loss of habitat, and increased pollution, various reintroductions throughout the United States have helped to improve their population status. Their reestablishment comes at a time overlapping with the introduction of a variety of invasive species including Japanese Knotweed (Reynoutria japonica). River otters use latrines along the shoreline which function as social meeting places and excretion locations along rivers. Japanese knotweed grows in dense populations along riparian areas, which has the potential to reduce accessibility of river otters to latrine areas In Ohiopyle State Park, two stream reach sections of the Youghenegy river have had varying levels of treatment occur for Japanese Knotweed resulting in different levels of plant density left behind. In this project, four camera traps were deployed on the Youghiogheny River. Two of those cameras were set up at latrine sites on the middle section of the river where full treatment of Japanese Knotweed occurred over fifteen years. The other two cameras were set up on latrines on the lower-lower section of the river where treatment only began in 2023. The goal of this research was to understand the potential impact Japanese knotweed has on river otter behavior and visitation patterns based on the plants presence and density at latrines. River otter detections occurred more frequently on the middle section of river where full treatment had occurred in comparison to the lower-lower section of river. In total, 43 river otter detections were collected from the four separate cameras. After looking at the data, it is important to consider further treatment on the lower-lower section of river in an attempt to replicate the findings seen on the middle section of river. By doing so, further support and education can be spread on how to best encourage conservation strategies for river otters especially within the Youghiogheny River.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: An Environmental Assessment of Mill Run in Meadville, Pennsylvania<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>This project\u2019s goal is to compare water chemistry and macroinvertebrate data of Mill Run from 2011 to data collected in this project (2025). Allegheny College\u2019s Center for Economic and Environmental Development performed a 2011 Environmental Assessment of Mill Run that reported data on water quality, macroinvertebrates, fish, land-cover, and habitat assessments from a variety of sites along Mill Run. Through the data collection and analysis of water quality and macroinvertebrates in this current project, more data is added to the current bank of knowledge on Mill Run and provides quantitative results that can be used to see if any changes in the stream\u2019s health have occurred. Five testing sites along Mill Run have been chosen for this project. Water chemistry tests and macroinvertebrate sampling were performed at each of the sites. Comparison between water chemistry data and the macroinvertebrate index of biotic integrity (IBI) from 2011 and this project (2025) was used to determine if there have been any changes in the water quality of Mill Run. This project’s data indicates that Mill Run has experienced some positive changes in water chemistry, but the IBI scores still indicate that the stream is not suitable for aquatic life. Future water quality monitoring should be conducted on Mill Run using the same protocols and methods used in this project to ensure consistent results and allow researchers and community members to understand the condition of Mill Run over time.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
\n
Title: Literary Exploration of the Barataria Bay Disaster: Saving Bottlenose Dolphins in the Face of Catastrophe<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) are one of the most well-known keystone species of the sea. This recognizable dolphin species supports their ecosystem through predation, habitat stimulation, and nutrient cycling (Born Free). Tursiops truncatus are found across the globe in both temperate and tropical waters, including Barataria Bay, Louisiana. This bay resides in the Northern center of the Gulf of Mexico, and one of the largest T. truncatus pods in the Gulf of Mexico resides here. This pod lost almost half of their 4,000-individual population size due to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in 2010, and it now faces another ecological hazard: the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion Project (MBSD). The MBSD aims to restore eroded marshland by depositing large amounts of sediment and freshwater into Barataria Bay. This construction would bring back species that once depended on this marshland but will be detrimental to the T. truncatus pod. Tursiops truncatus are known for their high site fidelity, even with lowering salinities, a decision that will lead to their extirpation. The MBSD contains a Dolphin Intervention Plan, but it focuses only on remote observations and what to do when a deceased T. truncatus individual is found. The goal of this research was to create a more appropriate and in-depth conservation management plan for the Barataria Bay T. truncatus pod. After a large-scale literature analysis, a new dolphin intervention plan was created using a 4-tier approach. Each tier represents a worsening ecological situation, and as they progress to 4, Barataria Bay and the T. truncatus pod within it fall further and further away from the possibility of successful rehabilitation, emphasizing human intervention as a tool to help as many T. truncatus individuals as possible. Efforts such as technological development, rehabilitation, observation, deterrence, and cooperation with the MBSD project itself were all included in this plan.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Foraging Fundamentals: Assessing Foraging Perceptions and Knowledge in Meadville, PA<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>As climate change worsens, current food systems are becoming inviable while the demand for food increases. Moreover, rates of food insecurity, limited access to sufficient and\/or nutritious food, and food apartheid (places with higher rates of food insecurity usually due to systemic decisions) in urban areas continue to rise. Research from the past 15 years has shown that foraging in urban areas can be used to help mitigate food insecurity. However, little research into alternative foodways such as foraging has been conducted in these locations. Meadville, an urban town of around 13,000 people located in northwestern Pennsylvania, suffers from high rates of food insecurity. So far, there has been no research into the viability of foraging as a means to mitigate food insecurity there. To address this gap, this study assessed perceptions and knowledge of foraging and general plant knowledge among Meadville residents through a thirty-minute focus group with nine participants. Findings show that the practice of foraging is viewed positively in general, while urban foraging is viewed more negatively due to complex interactions between an individual’s foraging experiences and knowledge, encountered barriers, and practices used to mitigate these barriers. The results of this study suggest that foraging cannot currently be used to help mitigate food insecurity and that foraging is more of a leisure activity in Meadville.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Instilling Sustainability Literacy in Allegheny College Students: An Analysis of Three Potential Programs<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>There is an increased need for knowledge of sustainability as the climate crisis threatens the future of humanity. Green jobs are increasing as a share of the job market, but there is a skills gap because many higher education institutions are lacking in their ability to educate their broader student body about sustainability, including its social, economic, and environmental dimensions. While Allegheny College prides itself as a sustainable campus and has a robust Environmental Science degree program, it has not yet implemented any programs to broaden sustainability education to the larger student body. Therefore, the objective of this study was to analyze the suitability of three sustainable education programs: a sustainability distribution requirement, an environmental science minor, and a sustainability microcredential, for implementation at Allegheny. I used a series of student and faculty surveys, staff interviews, and Multi-Criteria Decision Analyses to determine which program would have the most positive impact on campus based on criteria related to student and faculty workload, general interest, barriers to implementation, and benefits to students and the college. I determined the sustainability microcredential to be most suitable overall, followed very closely by the environmental science minor, while I determined the sustainability distribution requirement to be least suitable. I recommend that the college and ESS department implement both the microcredential and minor because they will provide a greater number of students with the green skills needed to close the gap in the workforce.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Landscaping for Good: Reintroducing Native Plants to the Allegheny Campus<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>The purpose of this project is to argue for the necessity of and to research, design, and propose a perennial garden space at Allegheny College designed under conventional landscape aesthetics while yielding benefits for insects. The majority of locally native herbivorous insect species feed exclusively on locally native plants; thus, increasing populations of native plants can support insect life. Through this project, I aim to create garden spaces on campus that can serve as a place of refuge and habitat for native insects as well as other animal species. I composed a total of six unique landscape designs for three garden beds, each centered around a design theme or pattern and with the underlying goal of providing food and habitat for native wildlife. Furthermore, I have provided for the installation and maintenance of this space, as well as the expansion of the project to additional locations. This project, as well as further expansion and use of the landscaping principles outlined here, has the potential to significantly increase the value of wildlife habitat on the Allegheny College campus and to inspire and inform similar projects elsewhere.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: White Man\u2019s Footstep: Plantago Major and Colonization in North America<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Plantago major, or Broadleaf Plantain, is Native to Europe and Asia and has been introduced around the world including North America. Plantago major teaches us that staying neutral is being complicit; we must actively put effort into mending and reestablishing not only land but social and political space for Indigenous communities and dismantling systemic racism.<\/div>\n
The plant has a long, complex history of distribution and commensalism with humans, especially as a medicinal and nutritious food, in its native and introduced ranges (Iwanycki et al, 2022). This plant has many ecological benefits for its environment by breaking up compact soil (Richards, 2021). Plantago major tells an intricate, intersectional story of the land and the people interacting with it, particularly of settler colonialism in North America. By analyzing Plantago major from a historical and ethnobotanical perspective, this miraculous herb reveals a history of colonial systems that target Black and Indigenous communities in and serves as a model for people living on stolen land and the importance of decolonizing North America. Foraging can be a way to learn about the biological colonization of the local landscape and take steps to dismantle systems that target Black and Indigenous communities. The goal of the research is to explore how colonialism has impacted the biological landscape and land policies in North America by focusing on Plantago major. By analyzing Plantago major from a historical and ethnobotanical perspective, I hope to acknowledge and resist colonial systems that are still in place.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Comparing soil organic matter and nitrogen content to corn field treatments utilizing no-till, tillage, and cover cropping in Waterford, Pennsylvania.<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Agriculture has changed throughout history into what it is today. Present large-scale grain farming operations have dominated the United States and pose concerns with soil health and environmental sustainability. Tillage of monoculture crop fields has resulted in loss of topsoil with consistent erosion, ultimately leading to devastating losses of nutrients including nitrogen and soil organic matter, both of which are responsible for soil health, and plant function. More recent sustainable treatments on large-scale fields including no-till and cover cropping help to mitigate the environmental impact of agriculture while maintaining profitable yields, but research has focused on the midwest region of the United States. This study investigates the correlation between the decision to utilize cover cropping with tillage and no-till grain farming, and soil organic matter and nitrogen content in Waterford, Pennsylvania. Results show that the combination of no-till and cover cropping field treatments supports the highest amount of both soil organic matter and nitrogen, while tillage without cover crops held the lowest. This research suggests adopting sustainable farming practices in Erie County, Pennsylvania increases soil health, which is linked to higher yields, carbon sequestration, and mitigation of soil and surrounding ecosystem degradation. Further research should be conducted on this response to yield and profitability to farmers in this area, and an economic analysis on the feasibility to transition from tillage to no-till systems.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Determination of Flowering Rush (Butomus umbellatus) Removal to Improve Teal (Spatula discors\/Anas carolinensis) Habitat in Ohio.<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Flowering rush (Butomus umbellatus) is an invasive aquatic plant species that is harming mudflat habitats. Mudflats are an essential ecosystem at Winous Point, near Port Clinton, Ohio, due to teal (Spatula discors and Anas carolinensis) hunting in the fall. Winous Point controls flowering rush in order to improve their mudflat habitats which are an important ecosystem for their business as they provide habitat for teal species. The degradation of this habitat through the introduction of flowering rush is a concern for the Winous staff. This project focuses on identifying the most effective treatment method for removing flowering rush in the coastal mudflat wetlands of Lake Erie’s Southwestern region. Eight treatments including herbicide application (2, 4-D and Glyphosate) and clipping treatments, either individually or in combination. Plots were set up in naturally occurring flowering rush areas. Before and after treatment, the number of flowering rush stalks was counted and categorized dead, dying, regrowth, or alive. Based on this study, the best method to control flowering rush in mudflat habitats that teal use is to use glyphosate. Controlling flowering rush is a conservation priority for maintaining waterfowl populations and supporting the broader ecological services provided by wetlands.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Packaged and Ready for Game Time: A study of Allegheny Athletics Relationship with Plastic<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Plastic waste has proliferated the entirety of the Earth\u2019s environment. Microplastics can be found interwoven from the peaks of mountains, to the depths of the oceans, with unknown ramifications for the health of the planet and its life forms. This issue implicates all types of organizations large and small. Allegheny College is an institution that prides itself on sustainability and environmentalism, however the Athletic Department has had minimal interaction with the school\u2019s Sustainability Department. This project set out to be an investigation of the Allegheny College Athletic Department\u2019s consumption of plastic, through the analysis of its purchasing records. That task proved to have several roadblocks that could not be overcome during the duration of this project. In response to these roadblocks, I reviewed three plastic products that came up in my investigation: polyester clothing, bottles, and packaging. The review examines literature detailing the environmental impact of these products across the world. My review also examined social and economic factors that have resulted in plastic waste proliferating the environment. From this investigation and review, I posit three recommendations for the college. The first is to create a more robust system of accounting for purchases, which includes written descriptions of items and the packaging containing said item. The second is to replace disposable bottles for reusable bottles on buses to competitions. The third is to reduce the amount of clothing that is purchased for individual athletes. These recommendations will help Allegheny College better understand Athletic\u2019s plastic waste generation and reduce the amount of plastic waste generated.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Watershed Management in Pennsylvania: Schuylkill and Lehigh Rivers<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Access to clean drinking water is a pressing environmental issue. The indispensibility of clean drinking water demands effective management of water resources. Watersheds are a natural unit for managing water, but are notoriously difficult to effectively govern due to political boundaries. Most research on watershed management examines watersheds that cross national and state borders, while less focuses on watersheds that cross county and municipal borders. To gain insight into watersheds of this scale, and specifically those in the state of Pennsylvania, this project examined two Pennsylvania rivers as case studies for watershed management, the Schuylkill River and Lehigh River. Using data from existing sources, it studied the quality of drinking water sourced from both watersheds, and examined how governance differs between the two, identifying strengths and weaknesses of governance in both regions. In general, the Schuylkill River features a more unified approach to governance than the Lehigh River does. In both cases, watershed management is the responsibility of many different entities, and in both cases is limited by an inability to regulate each watershed as a single unit, a finding that echoes prior research. Water governance and consequently drinking water quality might be improved in both regions through new top-down directives to spur further action on water quality, and facilitate management on the scale of the entire watershed.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Unraveling Jackson’s Water Crisis: A Study of Jackson, Mississippi vs. Flint, Michigan<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>The ongoing water crisis in Jackson, Mississippi, exemplifies the severe water quality challenges millions of Americans face due to crumbling infrastructure, systemic neglect, and environmental injustices. Jackson’s predominantly Black population has grappled with a “slow-moving disaster” of repeated boil advisories, water shortages, and contaminated water for decades, rooted in long-standing racial inequities and chronic underinvestment. This paper examines the root causes through a comprehensive case study analysis of historical events, demographic shifts, policies, and socioeconomic factors that contributed to the crisis. It conducts a comparative analysis with Flint, Michigan, which faced similar challenges, shedding light on effective strategies and pitfalls. The paper synthesizes policy guidance from experts on water equity and justice issues to inform an integrated framework tailored to Jackson’s circumstances. The culminating case study report diagnoses the root causes and provides evidence-based policy recommendations encompassing robust infrastructure investment, equitable governance mechanisms, community engagement, and measures to combat environmental racism. By examining this case through a multifaceted lens, the research contributes to discourses on urban water equity, environmental justice, and the urgent need to uphold the human right to clean, safe, and affordable water for all communities.<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Eco-Friendly Stadiums: A comparative analysis of sustainability measures at three large-scale venues<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
Date:<\/strong> Spring 2025
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Large-scale stadiums serve as year-round venues for some of the world\u2019s largest events, including sports games and concerts which boost the cultural and economic value of the country by bringing people together and boosting local economies. However, increasing climate-related issues and growing pressure from the public has led to a need for change in how sustainability is managed at stadiums.<\/div>\n
The purpose of this research was to complete a comparative analysis of three different large-scale stadiums across the Great Lakes region of the United States to outline sustainability measures regarding energy efficiency and waste reduction. The three venues were Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio. The three sites were compared against Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia as it is cited as a leader in sustainability but did not fit the criteria to be included in this study.<\/div>\n
The findings of this research illustrate that all three stadiums are reducing waste, but only two of the stadiums are managing their energy consumption. Additionally, there is a need for more transparent sustainability measures due to the lack of peer-reviewed literature discussing stadium sustainability. The majority of the research for this project was completed through stadium websites, press releases, and online news articles. Some stadium websites are lacking sustainability information at all. Further research could address food waste at large-scale stadiums as there is a gap in available information on the topic.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n
<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Title: Narratives of Justice: Investigating Environmental Injustices in Louisiana Creole Communities Through the Lens of Ouragan by Laurent Gaud\u00e9 Date: Spring 2025 Major(s): Environmental Science, French Thesis Committee:\u00a0Environmental Science & Sustainability Abstract: Primarily located in the southern part of Louisiana, Creole communities are typically found in rural and plantation areas along the Mississippi River and […]<\/p>\n

Continue Reading “Senior Abstracts: 2025”<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":623,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"class_list":["post-6072","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6072","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/623"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6072"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6072\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6090,"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6072\/revisions\/6090"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6072"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":6066,"date":"2026-09-03T10:12:34","date_gmt":"2026-09-03T14:12:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/?page_id=6066"},"modified":"2026-09-03T10:14:06","modified_gmt":"2026-09-03T14:14:06","slug":"senior-abstracts-2024","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/senior-abstracts-2024\/","title":{"rendered":"Senior Abstracts: 2024"},"content":{"rendered":"

Title: Yellowtail blue damselfish (Chrysiptera parasema) response to climate change: Impact of temperature on behavior<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Rising ocean temperatures are a major indicator of climate change. Changes in ocean temperature can alter marine ecosystems, such as coral reefs, and the organisms that depend on them. Reef fish such as Chrysiptera parasema (yellowtail-blue damselfish) can act as an indicator species for reef health. Understanding how yellowtail damselfish respond to an increase in water temperature is key to examining how climate change can affect marine ecosystems. The purpose of this study was to test yellowtail damselfish aggressiveness in response to an increase in temperature. This study draws on the methods of da Silva Pinto et al. (2020). 7-8 yellowtail damselfish were divided into groups of 2-3 among three tanks. These tanks were subject to temperature change (22\u2103-26\u2103) to determine how the fish\u2019s behavior changed throughout the experimental process. Temperature was not found to be a significant factor in yellowtail behavior (p<0.66). However, we did find significance in the type of behavior as temperature increases (p<0.026) as well as a difference between behavior totals (p<0.018). Our analysis emphasizes the importance of studying these interspecies interactions to understand reef fish survivability, thermal tolerance, and ecosystem importance.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: \u201cStudents Here Care For Other Students\u201d: Student-Run Food Pantries as an Approach to Addressing Collegiate Food Insecurity<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>The decline of secure food systems resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic identified the barriers to sufficient food access in the United States. Although this issue existed before the pandemic, these \u201csymptoms\u201d of a broken system increased significantly for communities most vulnerable to food insecurity. Of these populations, college students remain particularly prone to experiencing food insecurity at some point during their time in higher education. Further, low-income college students typically have even less navigational capital than their higher-income peers to persist past these barriers, sometimes forcing them to transfer or even drop out altogether. Seeing as food remains unanimously understood as a necessity for life, establishing access to food is also necessary for providing the conditions needed to function as a well-rounded student. Creating expansive food access programming and resources has proven to be efficient and effective in supporting the needs of low-income students. Through the establishment of a comprehensive Food Resource Center for students through Food Recovery Network processes, I aimed to collect, analyze, and deliver data regarding the influence of accessible food systems on low-income student retention in higher education institutions.<\/p>\n

\n
\n
\n

Title: Acutec Precision Aerospace Implementation of Sustainability Practices to Reduce Energy Consumption<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science, Business
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Acutec Precision Aerospace is a small aerospace manufacturing company located in Meadville, PA. Throughout this project, I worked with Acutec to determine ways to reduce their energy consumption within their Meadville facility. Doing this led to cost savings as well as creating a competitive advantage with the marketing of being a green company. I researched how the usage of renewable energy from the implementation of solar panels, changes to the lighting system, and a more energy-efficient central heating and cooling system can reduce energy consumption within Acutec. Using tools such as PVWatts I determined where solar panels could potentially be installed as well as estimates of the energy production the systems would generate. From conducting my research I found ways that Acutec Precision Aerospace can reduce its energy consumption which will not only benefit the environment but also lead to increased profits and stronger customer relationships. This is an important change for Acutec as new regulations within Europe which is where their biggest customers are located businesses are now required to publicly release their carbon emissions and energy consumption for the year. In this project, I conducted a cost-benefit analysis of the different suggestions made to determine what future cost\/savings there would be after implementing the new policies.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n
Title: Home Energy Audit & Shared Equity Housing in Meadville, PA<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science, Business
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Currently, there is a lack of affordable housing across the United States, with around 11 million households per year who are deeply dependent on these kinds of housing options. Housing affordability is affected by the challenge of building energy efficiency. Affordable housing units tend to have lower levels of energy efficiency due to US building codes, building envelope weaknesses, and outdated inefficient heating systems. Energy audits are a proven practice that can help detect areas of building energy loss and help determine optimal energy efficiency improvements at owner budget costs. The following research study encompasses a student-led ASHRAE level three home energy audit on a three story, 134 year old house located on 662 William Street in Meadville, Pennsylvania. Utilizing NREL\u2019s BEopt software modeling application, seventeen individual retrofit upgrades were modeled in parametric mode in order to conclude the most optimal scenario in terms of maximum site energy savings and lowest annualized costs. Scenario four was determined to be the most optimal choice, giving the site energy savings of 76.2% and overall prevent value cost of $69,587. Through an academic literature review, this study also investigated the impact and outcomes that community land trusts have produced in recent years throughout the US. It was found that community land trusts can help residents and communities by creating opportunities to build wealth, increase occupant autonomy, limit gentrification, and improve residents\u2019 mental and physical health. Challenges of community land trusts lie within the exiting stages for residents along with the limitations on higher thresholds of wealth generation for existing occupants.<\/div>\n
\n

Title: Going Bananas For Local Fruit: Addressing The Negative Impacts of Imported Food Through Local Food Alternatives<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Bananas are one of the most consumed fruits in the United States. You can buy them for relatively cheap but their ecological price tag is quite high. Due to this fact, through an in-depth literature review of online academic sources, I researched the effects of bananas in all aspects to show the negatives of banana consumption compared to local fruit and produce consumption. Consuming fruits like bananas in the United States brings up other topics such as globalization which I touch on too. I used the data retrieved to show how local consumption can be beneficial in many regards and offered local alternatives for Meadville residents. I researched the ways local produce can be purchased in Meadville PA, and researched the farms that are supplying the local community. I found that the majority of small local farms in Meadville are using organic and sustainable growing techniques on their farms. I was able to prove my argument by showing how much these techniques can benefit the environment and compare them to conventional farming techniques. I also found that local economies are uplifted by a significant amount due to local agriculture consumption. It was determined that the benefits of consuming locally outweighed the barriers of seasonal consumption.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n

Title: Ecological Economics: Capturing its Notable Trajectory Through a Podcast<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>This senior project looks to answer one question: building on the history of ecological economics and its main objectives, what is in store for its future? To answer this question, I created a four-episode podcast series based on different aspects of the ecological economics field: its history, its two main areas of controversy, and its future. Each podcast episode is based on an extensive literature review for each chapter of the written portion, corresponding to these four topics mentioned above. At its very core, ecological economics is a profoundly radical field that could offer solutions to reducing the irreversible impact that humans have left on the planet. However, it would essentially reject the economic behaviours that have become so accepted by policymakers and businesses, but also by many individuals across the globe in their daily lives. Therefore, does ecological economic thinking bear an opportunity to become commonplace in the near future? By examining ecological economics writing since its inception as a field to the present, it is clear that the field is at a crossroads. Ecological economics has identified what has been going wrong, yet a straightforward path towards an achievable solution has yet to be discovered. Identifying this disconnect is the goal of my senior project.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n

Title: An Educational Experience Evaluation Highlighting Pollinating Insects<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science, Biology
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Pollination is a phenomenon that is necessary for the germination of a seed. This process is made possible by pollinators, such as bees, butterflies, moths, flies, and bats, who carry pollen from one flowering plant to another. The largest contributors to pollination are insects. Habitat loss, pesticides, pathogens, and parasites are leading to decreases in pollinator populations. Being that there are environmental concerns surrounding pollinators, environmental education aims to make more people aware of their importance. In environmental education, connectedness, real-world application, and tactile learning have been shown to improve learning experiences for students. Being that pollinators face environmental challenges, pollinator education is essential in developing community awareness. To increase conservation efforts towards pollinators, pollinator education becomes essential. There are many techniques in pollinator education, but specimen-based learning has been shown to improve understanding of content and engage learners in a meaningful manner. In this research, a pollinator lesson, which includes hands-on experience with pollinator specimens, was taught to middle school students at libraries. A pre- and post-survey was used to evaluate its effectiveness. Participants were asked about their perceptions of pollinator species, along with willingness and understanding of conservation efforts. While there was no statistically significant change in learning due to the program, there were trends of improved answering and deeper understanding of content. If replicated during the appropriate season and including possible extensions to learning, this model would prove to deepen pollinator knowledge and equip participants with the tools they need to take conservation action.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n

Title: Investigating Small-Scale Farmers’ Perceptions of Climate Change in Northwestern Pennsylvania: Implications for Agricultural Sustainability<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Pennsylvania has experienced significant temperature increases and precipitation changes since the early 1900s, with projections indicating further warming and increased rainfall by 2050. Projected impacts such as an increase in intense precipitation events and rising temperatures will cause crop damage and an overall decrease in farm production in crops and livestock. In the state of Pennsylvania, agriculture is crucial to the economic and cultural landscape. Farmers in this region are disproportionately impacted by climate change, yet their perspectives often remain understudied. By conducting a focus group of four small-scale farmers from Crawford County, this study highlights the nuanced insights into farmers’ risk perceptions, adaptation strategies, and willingness to engage in climate change efforts. These findings highlight the complex relationship between climate change impacts, local food production, and farmers\u2019 perceptions while providing insights and strategies for promoting sustainability within food systems. Future research should explore the viability of farmers’ proposed solutions for addressing climate issues, examine the long-term effects of changing weather patterns on ecosystem biodiversity, evaluate the effectiveness of small-scale farmers’ adaptation strategies, and continue exploring climate perceptions within underrepresented communities.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Reducing the Energy and Cost Burden in Meadville, Pennsylvania\u2019s Rental Sector: What national and state programs can renters utilize themselves?<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>This project looked into the residential sector of Meadville, Pennsylvania\u2019s Climate Action Plan, more specifically the rental sector of the plan. The main goal of this project was to determine the state and federal programs that renters can utilize to reduce their monthly costs of living and renting as well as their energy burden. I have looked at the actions that have been proposed as well as the equity benefits that have been listed in the Climate Action Plan. After looking at the equity of the plan as well as the demographics of Meadville, I determined if the programs chosen will be effective in reducing costs, emissions, and the energy burden in Meadville, Pennsylvania. After having determined the effectiveness of each of the programs, I had developed a pamphlet with a short description of each program as well as the criteria that must be met in order to apply for the program. The pamphlet will be distributed to local businesses and organizations in Meadville, Pennsylvania in order to reach the maximum number of residents. The distribution of information is necessary, as most residents who are renting their place of living are not aware of the programs they may be eligible to partake in.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Children’s Book: A Story on Water Waste and Filtration<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Environmental topics are often not made digestible for the general public, especially children. This is often due to the closed off nature of the sciences, and the focus on objectivity over ease of comprehension and entertainment. Due to this, and the anxiety and stress that is often associated with environmental issues, these topics are not easy on children emotionally and mentally. By using the power cuteness has on invoking feelings of compassion, empathy, and love, along with a narrative based story, not only can children be eased into and encouraged to learn about environmental science, but they can also more effectively retain the information delivered to them. This project aims to first review available literature on children’s books, their impact, their importance, and their place within the conversation of Environment Science and stewardship. I then review existing children’s books in order to ultimately create my own children’s book on the topic of water waste and its filtration. The book follows the story of a young child in the city as they embark on a journey with their new cute and whimsical friend and explore their relationship with water. The goal is to teach children about a complicated issue in a lighthearted and digestible way, while also addressing an overlooked demographic when it comes to children’s books and Environmental Science, as experienced and felt personally.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Effects of meteorological conditions on waterfowl population and intake reasons: measured by rehabilitation center data<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Biology, Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Aquatic environments are at great risk because of global climate change and the associated warming of atmospheric temperatures. Freshwater ecosystems are experiencing changes in temperature and volume of water. These fluctuations of physical properties impact organisms that rely on freshwater ecosystems. Waterfowl are a group of bird species that spend most of their life in these habitats and depend on the health of the ecosystem for food, safety, and nesting. Waterfowl that are ill or injured may be taken in by a wildlife rehabilitation program. Wildlife rehabilitators are important in the conservation of these species and have records of waterfowl intakes dating back for decades. Using these records, changes in temperature and precipitation can be linked to the population and health of waterfowl in the area. In this study, 19 species of waterfowl and 3,465 records from the Lake Erie Nature and Science Center in Northern Ohio were used to determine if these shifts in meteorology could explain variations in species composition, intake reason, and age. It was found that temperature is a better indicator of waterfowl intakes with the variable being able to explain 21% of variation in species composition, 15% of variation in intake reason, and 24% of variation in age of waterfowl. Mallard, Canada Goose, and Wood Duck were the species most commonly taken in. The most common reason for intake was being orphaned, hit by a car, or injured by something unknown. For age, nestlings were most commonly taken in. I aim to provide a foundation for the Lake Erie Nature and Science Center\u2019s rehabilitation program going forward, with the impacts of climate change on waterfowl in mind.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Joey in the Forest: How a Television Show can help Prepare our Future for System Change<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Capitalism values the Earth through a lens of monetary potential. This, combined with capitalism\u2019s growth imperative has lead to the destruction and wasting of our natural resources leading to the climate crisis we face today. This way of interacting with the world is ingrained within the minds of Americans because it is essential to survival in capitalist life. This project identifies this problem while addressing it through a television show designed to attack this worldview of exploitation. The show seeks to offer discussion on how capitalism impacts the earth while offering alternative systems of value through interconnection and inherent value. I have written the pilot episode, outlined the rest of the season, and prepared a pitch of the show for this project. Goals were created to make sure my goal accomplishes what it seeks to do. My show, titled Joey in the Forest, accomplishes these goals to varying degrees. Interconnection and inherent value are portrayed well, but the relationship between capitalism and the earth could be stronger. The show does do a good job of attacking the thought processes behind capitalism, though. Through watching my new show, my audience of 13-16 year olds will learn ways of valuing the world and be able to think beyond capitalism, creating a future population more ready for necessary system change.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Driven by Nature: A Comparative Analysis of Environmental Messaging in Ford and Subaru’s Advertising Landscape<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>This paper conducts a comprehensive analysis of environmental messaging in the advertising strategies of automotive giants Ford and Subaru, spanning from 2000 to 2022. Through a comparative examination of their commercials, the study explores how these brands position themselves in relation to nature and environmental consciousness. While Subaru emphasizes empathy and social responsibility, particularly through its poignant portrayal of shelter dogs with special needs in its 2022 commercial, Ford takes a historical narrative approach, celebrating its role in American progress in its 2020 advertisement. Despite differences in tone and messaging, both brands subtly convey their stance on environmental issues, reflecting their unique brand identities and target demographics. This paper highlights the evolution of environmental messaging in automotive advertising and its implications for consumer perceptions and brand loyalty. Through an analysis of Subaru’s trajectory towards emphasizing empathy and social responsibility, and Ford’s focus on dominion, American heritage, and rugged individualism, the study reveals how these brands have adapted their advertising strategies to align with shifting cultural values and consumer preferences over the years. Ultimately, the study sheds light on the complex interplay between advertising narratives, brand positioning, and environmental consciousness in the automotive industry.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Planting the seeds of food security In Meadville, PA through food forestry<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Food insecurity is a problem in Meadville, Pa. Poverty is experienced at a higher rate than the national average and food deserts limit the variety and quality of food in the city. Relying on modern agriculture does not yield sustainable results and rates of food insecurity are likely to increase. The proposed alternative, food forests, are more resistant to the effects of climate change and are better able to combat food insecurity. Food forests can be of public service through the provision of sufficiently diverse nutrients, communal and mental benefits of greenspaces, and the targeting of the root causes of food insecurity. The aim of this comprehensive project is to create a design for a food forest in Meadville, PA. The final deliverable will be the ability to use this paper as directions for the creation of a food forest that can directly fulfill the four pillars of food security; availability, access, utilization and stability.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Biofertilization and Biofortification of Allium porrum through Inoculation with Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi across a Compost Gradient<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s): <\/strong>Biology, Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>The relationship between crop plants and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) have been extensively studied due to their positive impact on plant growth and yield. There are fewer studies that investigate the effets of AMF on crop nutrient density. This experiment aimed to determine the effects of an arbuscular mycorriza R. irregularis and varying levels of compost addition on leek nutrient density and growth in greenhouse conditions. Height was taken prior to harvest while mass and nutrient analysis were done post harvest. There was no significant difference in height or mass between leeks grown with and without AMF. Compost addition did significantly increase both height and mass, however leeks did not reach market size. ICP-MS nutrient analysis revealed that AMF had no effect on the concentration of micronutrients significant to human health found in leeks, however compost addition significantly increased micronutrient concentrations. Nutrient analysis revealed that AMF had no effect on the concentration of most heavy metals found in leeks, however compost addition significantly decreased heavy metal concentrations. The concentration of silver significantly decreased with AMF addition, which may point to AMFs ability to sequester heavy metals. In contrast, aluminium concentration increased with AMF addition in high-compost media. Further research should consider expanding the compost gradient in order to better understand the nutrient limitations of R. irregularis. In addition, the nutrient composition of the media should be analyzed prior to planting the leeks to ensure there are not high concentrations of heavy metals. The effects of AMF on heavy metal sequestration could also be further investigated, particularly in the case of aluminium.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Solar Design with Integrated Native Landscaping for Allegheny College<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s): <\/strong>Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Land used for golf courses faces environmental degradation despite efforts to make the sport more environmentally friendly. Golf courses consume a lot of land so when one such as the Hailwood Golf Course in Meadville, PA closes, it provides an opportunity for more sustainable development to help negate the environmental impacts they have caused. If a golf course was retrofitted into a solar farm, it could provide power to large energy demands such as those from educational institutions. Solar farms also have environmental impacts, specifically on biodiversity so the implementation of native vegetation could help address their impacts on biodiversity. The aim of this project is to create a solar design with integrated native landscaping to see if it would be feasible for Allegheny College. There were four main phases to this project: developing the solar design, developing a native landscaping plan, calculating costs, and drafting the final recommendation. The solar design was completed in the Open Solar application and the native landscaping plan was developed through online research and selection of seeds from Ernst Seeds. The cost calculations included the total cost of the project, annual savings, payback period, and return on investment. Payback period and return on investment (ROI) were used as the criteria to determine if the project should be recommended. The Hailwood Golf Course solar design resulted in a payback period of 15.2 years and an ROI of 6.59% which were both outside the qualifying criteria for this project to be recommended to Allegheny College. While the solar design is not recommended based on Allegheny\u2019s current energy budget, it could be recommended with additional grant funding.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Mapping Marsh Marvels: A GIS Approach to Locating Least Bittern Habitat in Northwestern Pennsylvania<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s): <\/strong>Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>As the smallest member of the heron family, the Least Bittern is often overlooked and pushed aside as not as important as these other species. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. Playing a direct role in their native ecosystems these birds provide the ever-important ecosystem functions of nutrient cycling and population control. Pushed out of their wetland nesting sights due to urban expansion and resource extraction, this species is losing the fight to human development throughout Pennsylvania. Utilizing GIS this study sought to identify wetlands within the PA Fish and Game Commission Wildlife Management Unit 1B. To do so aerial photography was leveraged to conduct manual delineations separating each wetland by its vegetation type. Utilizing the amount of each vegetation type within the wetlands an analysis was undertaken to produce the likely, possible, and unlikely habitable wetland categories. A resulting map was generated to highlight where and which wetlands were the best for least bittern habitat needs. The resulting data found that 83.7% of wetlands within the study region were unlikely habitable because they were forested wetlands. A recommendation was made for more in-depth research into the likely habitable wetlands to determine exact nest sites. As well as conservation improvements for the unlikely habitable wetlands. Utilizing the resulting data from this study the secretive least bittern habitat can be understood and by using the recommended wetlands can be better monitored to ensure the future of this species’ health in Pennsylvania.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Micro Mobility Solutions: Case Studies and Strategies for Active Transportation on Allegheny College Campus<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s): <\/strong>Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>This research paper looks into how installing a solar-powered e-bike charging station could promote active commuting while lowering carbon emissions. Walking and bicycling have positive effects on the environment and human health, yet vehicle dependency is still common in many places, mostly because of societal norms and prioritized infrastructure. This study examines the problems with car-centric urban design and emphasizes how car emissions harm the environment and public health. The potential for active transportation options, such as micro-mobility projects, and bike-sharing services, to influence people to choose more environmentally friendly forms of transportation is examined under a smaller scope. This study highlights the effective strategies for promoting eco-friendly mobility options by analyzing case studies of successful active transportation projects, such as the Bird and Lime scooter programs, as well as university-based initiatives like the University of Tennessee’s solar-powered bike vending machine and Portland State University’s E-bike rental program. Furthermore, this study breaks down the process of planning and executing the construction of an e-bike charging station powered by solar energy at Allegheny College, with a focus on factors like cost, aesthetics, functionality, and safety. Overall, this study intends to give a guide for developing sustainable transportation infrastructure that promotes active mobility while helping in efforts to achieve carbon neutrality by combining insight.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Ground Cover Under Tree Canopies on the Allegheny College Campus: Assessment and Recommendations<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s): <\/strong>Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Landscaping for several decades has been dominated by two main forces, grass and mulch. When looking into common patterns in landscaping it will almost always be seen as the recommendation of one of these two components in your garden or green space. Urban green spaces are dominated by grass, with approximately 75% of the spaces having a high majority of grass and mulch. Allegheny College is following these common trends and has very high percentages of both materials on campus. This is an issue because grass and mulch are not the ideal option that should be used. There are several disadvantages to using high percentages of both materials. Grass has many issues with input versus output returns and for mulch, many of the disadvantages come from improper application methods. Some of the most critical areas in a forest are under the canopy of the trees. Here there is a convergence of many different living organisms, not only the trees and plants but additionally mammals, birds, and insects. The area under the canopy of a tree has great potential to have very high levels of biodiversity. The variety of the plants in this area is a stable indicator of the animal or insect species diversity in the area. Essentially the more variety in plants in this area then the better the levels of biodiversity there will be. My goal of this project was to create an under canopy planting guide, and replace portions of mulch and grass under the tree canopies with native vegetation. I gathered information on estimated canopy area and mulch size on the main campus which I then coupled with a plant recommendation list and long-term management guide. Increasing the rates of native vegetation will promote higher levels of biodiversity, in both plant and animal populations. The transition to native plants is also more cost effective than the current mulching protocol. Finally this plan will allow Allegheny College to align themselves more closely with our overall sustainability goals.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Linking Food Security to the Development of Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Literature Review of Food Accessibility and Overall Health<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s): <\/strong>Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> My research addresses the negative impact that food insecurity can have on health, specifically in cases of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Inflammatory Bowel Disease or IBD is characterized by chronic inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. Research has shown that Inflammatory Bowel Disease can be greatly impacted by diet where certain foods may trigger inflammation and further complications of the disease, or they may help reduce or even prevent inflammation in the gut. Unfortunately, nutritious foods needed to adhere to a healthy diet and life are not always accessible. The lack of access to enough food for a healthy life is known as food insecurity. Low-income and BIPOC communities are disproportionately impacted by this problem. Knowing that diet has proven to be a factor in IBD and that specific communities are more susceptible to food insecurity, I decided to explore if there is a connection between dietary limitations due to structural and socioeconomic factors and the development of IBD. I found that food insecurity is connected to other barriers such as biases based on weight and race as well as poverty. All of these things are interconnected and impact one another. In conclusion, food insecurity does play a role in the development of IBD and it is an underrecognized problem. I use Meadville as an example to highlight how common these issues are and to address that we have these issues locally in our community.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: The Right Place for Right Whales<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s): <\/strong>Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>North Atlantic Right Whales (NARW) are a critically endangered species of whale found primarily in the coastal waters of North America. Due to high amounts of human activity in these waters, ship strikes are one of the leading causes of death for NARW. Using a GIS based multi-criteria analysis, risk of ship strikes with NARW was evaluated by utilizing weighted linear combination and analytical hierarchy process. In the study region, only .02% of the study region was found to be at the highest risk of ship strike. These areas of highest risk were concentrated around areas where ship traffic was highly concentrated, NARWs are present, and there are no speed limits present. Areas with these qualities typically occurred around major port cities like Boston. Due to these areas not being within protected areas, it is recommended that these areas be at the highest priority when considering adding and expanding protected areas for NARWs.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Road Salt Utilization: Effects on Freshwater Ecosystems in Northwest Pennsylvania<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s): <\/strong>Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>The goal of this comp project was to conduct a study to determine whether or not chloride levels present in streams of Meadville, Pa, Mill Run and Dick Run were higher before or after the winter months. The approach for this project was to collect water samples from both streams (Dick and Mill Run) and test for the chloride levels present in each sample from a total of eight sample sites between each stream which included: HP Way Park, the Ravine Parking Lot, behind the Delt House, Dick Run Stewart Lot, the intersection of North Street and Liberty Street, Walgreens, the Meadville Library, and Meadville Medical Center. A total of two water samples were collected from all eight sites from October 2023 – January 2024. The data was then presented in a google spreadsheet showing the average level of chlorides present within the two waterways for the two samples collected each month. Then this data was compared to the EPA standards to determine if the chloride levels present within the waterways are considered toxic.<\/p>\n

In the findings of this research project, the results showed that chloride levels specifically within the month of December were higher for the stream Dick Run. Furthermore, Dick Run exceeded EPA standard limits multiple times in areas that surrounded Allegheny College. This was not the case for the stream Mill Run, as results showed that Mill Run chloride levels throughout the entirety of this study never exceeded levels higher than 100 ppm.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Weed\u2019s for Smokin,\u2019 Water\u2019s for Fightin\u2019 Over: An examination of the water demands of marijuana and impacts of federal legalization<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s): <\/strong>Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Legalization of marijuana is an ongoing conversation at all levels of government as states continue to legalize medical and recreational marijuana and the federal government has begun approach reform, however there is little research of data concerning the needs of marijuana as a commercial crop, particularly the water demand. This project conducted an analysis of existing data on the water needs of marijuana and applied it to a hypothetical market in the state of Idaho, developed by comparing the markets of other western states that have long allowed for both medical and recreational marijuana. The hypothetical market was divided by counties based upon agricultural output and further analysis of water use focuses on two counties in the southeastern portion of the state in order to compare marijuana\u2019s water to existing diversions from the Snake River, which operates under the prior appropriation water doctrine. While marijuana has a high water demand, this hypothetical market requires relatively little in comparison to what is being cultivated now, however, the Snake River is overallocated and continuing current patterns could result in severe ecosystem damage, especially as it pertains to the salmon that have historically spawned in the Snake River. Legalization of marijuana provides an opportunity to reshape water policy to create systems that better support both agriculture and wildlife.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Designing an Artistic Moss Garden for Physical and Mental Wellbeing<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s): <\/strong>Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Forest bathing is the practice of consciously spending time in nature, not to partake in any activities, but to simply exist and take in one\u2019s surroundings. Grounding or earthing is simply sustaining direct physical contact with the ground. It has been shown to regulate the body\u2019s functions by syncing it to the Earth\u2019s circadian rhythms. Both grounding and forest bathing have been found to help people with anxiety\/stress, depression, inflammation, blood pressure, and many other mental and physical health benefits. In this project I examine how these nature-based practices can be made more inviting, accessible, and comfortable to people, particularly overly-stressed college students. This was done by designing moss gardens that are not only functional seating areas, but are also works of calming art in themselves. The first model features a seating area that positions two people facing each other in reclined and attached lounge chairs. The second model features a single large round seating area surrounded by patches of circular moss stepping \u201cstones\u201d on the ground. The final models are harmoniously flowing, relaxing designs. These designs successfully model a space that could become a garden that helps visitors relax, reflect on their relationship with nature, and enjoy the benefits of Shinrin-Yoku and grounding.<\/p>\n

\n
\n
\n

Title: Climate Resilience in Allegheny’s Urban Forest: A Tree Inventory and Management Plan<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s): <\/strong>Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Urban forests consist of forest ecosystems in urban spaces. These forests provide many ecosystem services when managed correctly and can form a valuable part of urban life for humans and other ecosystem users. However, climate and pest threats are increasing the need for an urban forest that is climate resilient. What does an urban forest management plan focused on the creation of a climate resilient Allegheny campus look like? I analyze stakeholders needs and prior research to develop a vision, inventory, and strategic plan to increase climate resiliency on Allegheny\u2019s campus. The inventory includes 727 trees. Only a few of these trees are recently planted, only a handful are larger than 35 inches diameter at breast height, and 13% belong to one species – red maple. The majority, 60%, of the trees are native to North America, and many face dramatic threats from pests, sometimes with replacement costs over $100,000 per pest. The future of Allegheny\u2019s urban forest is dependent on the resilient management plan which will maintain the tree canopy and the environmental services of the urban forest without compromising the campus’s aesthetics.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\n
\n

Title: Weed It and Reap: Home Gardening Motivations in the Greater Meadville Area<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s): <\/strong>Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>The food system in the United States has changed significantly over time as industrialization and globalization have changed the landscape of the economy. Though its significance has fluctuated, home gardening has remained an important part of the home economy. The motivations for gardening have evolved over time as historical contexts shifted. A few events that popularized gardening in the United States were the World Wars, particularly World War II, and recently the COVID-19 pandemic. This study seeks to understand broad motivators to home gardening in the 21st century, when fresh food is more accessible than ever through grocery stores and farmers markets. Why do people garden? Additionally, the research seeks to identify how these motivations may have been influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic. In person, semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants from the Meadville area who maintain home gardens. Questions were directed but open-ended and focused on participants\u2019 gardening activities, history, and results. Transcriptions of the interviews were used to categorize and quantify responses that identify patterns in motivations and draw conclusions. The results are significant since it is not well understood how home gardening motivations have been influenced by the coronavirus pandemic.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Sherman Trap Survey of Small Mammal Diversity on French Creek Valley Conservancy Managed Properties<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s): <\/strong>Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Small mammals are an indispensable part of our ecosystems but are at risk for concerning population declines and biodiversity loss as a result of human interference. The French Creek Valley Conservancy (FCVC) is land trust based in Crawford County PA that\u2019s committed to maintaining ecologically healthy properties. However, they have limited resources and personnel, which has created challenges to effectively surveying the organizations properties for small mammals. To fill this gap in knowledge, live trapping was conducted using Sherman traps at three sites managed by the FCVC: Greendale Cemetery, Lew\u2019s Land, and Robert Brace Nature Reserve. Thirty traps were set each night for three consecutive nights. This three-night trapping period was performed twice at each of the three sites, once in late fall (11\/10\/23-11\/12\/23, 11\/17\/23-11\/19\/23, 12\/8\/23-12\/10\/23) and once in winter (2\/7\/24-2\/15\/24), for a total possible 180 captures per site. Captured mammals were identified, weighed, and released, and site data was recorded. There were 412 successful undisturbed trap nights across all sites and 78 captures, including white-footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus) and deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus). This study created a better understanding of small mammal community composition in the three properties, supplementing the camera trapping conducted in the past to create a more comprehensive view of biodiversity at the sites. This information can act as an additional factor to consider in future decisions made about the properties, and the methodology used in this study can be reused for future live trapping of small mammals.<\/p>\n

\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n
Title: Hammerhead Sharks in Florida: Marine Protected Areas<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s): <\/strong>Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> The worldwide shark population is drastically declining due to human activity that impacts the environment. Since 1970, shark population has decreased by 71% which is leading one-third of the world\u2019s shark population to extinction (Clemson 2023). In the state of Florida, there is an increased rate of shark species becoming endangered. The four species of hammerhead sharks that reside in the state of Florida are declining. The state of Florida, has implemented Marine Protected Areas for species that are susceptible to being vulnerable to extinction. This project focused on identifying the Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in the state of Florida and where there should be MPAs. A second objective of this project is understanding and identifying Florida\u2019s laws with commercial and recreational fishing, the political hurdles, what makes an MPA and the process to implement one, and the ecological requirements for the four species of hammerhead sharks.<\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n
Title: Effects of Ecological Edges on Mammal Diversity in Western Pennsylvania Forests<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s): <\/strong>Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Habitat fragmentation is one of the most significant threats to biodiversity and ecosystem function worldwide. The edge effect refers to the numerous effects of proximity to edges on ecosystem elements and is one important consequence of habitat fragmentation. To measure the impact of edge on terrestrial mammal diversity I set camera traps along transects in northern hardwood forest fragments in three properties managed by the French Creek Valley Conservancy in Crawford County, Pennsylvania. Four camera traps were placed 200 meters apart at each site, Raup\u2019s Wildlife Sanctuary, Mammoth Run, and Greendale Cemetery. At all sites, two cameras were placed in close proximity (approximately 20 meters) to manmade ecological edges, and the other two were placed in the interior forest fragments. Cameras were active 24 hours a day with a 30 second delay for two weeks consecutively at each site, with all trapping taking place between September and November 2023. Overall mammal richness and species presence along the transects were measured, along with diversity using the Shannon-Weiner Diversity index. All measures compared edge areas to core areas. At all sites, there were more species detected (n = 4 compared to n = 2), more total detections (n = 115 compared to n = 64), and more relative richness at core areas than at edge areas. Core areas at all sites had greater diversity (Hs) and evenness (J\u2019). However, none of these trends were found to be statistically significant. Small sample size, site heterogeneity, short time scale, and disproportionately high percentage of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) detections were potential contributors to the lack of statistically significant trends. This research extended camera trap fragmentation research into a new, previously unstudied area, provided information about the value of a specific study method for different groups of mammals, and provided information about ecosystem dynamics in a land conservancy that can be used to inform conservation efforts.<\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n
Title: Caflisch Hall: A Rain Garden Emerging from the Rubble<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s): <\/strong>Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> Allegheny College is a small liberal arts college located in Meadville, Pennsylvania, demolished Caflisch Hall over the summer of 2023, and what remains is an empty \u201cgreen space\u201d. This project looked at the potential for a rain garden, a form of green infrastructure, which are strategically placed in depressions that are designed to “take all, or as much as possible, of the excess rainwater run-off from a house or other building and its associated landscape\u201d. Utilizing GIS and drone imagery, analysis based on factors such as slope, distance from trees, and distance to nearest downspouts and building foundations. Slope values of 13% with a majority of the slope at 25% or greater were found, which is far too steep to create an effective rain garden. Every other variable met the criteria or was not applicable at this location, besides noting the tree located on the eastern portion of the property. With the future use of the property currently being uncertain, with possibilities of additional impervious surfaces being added to campus, the implementation and construction of a rain garden would be recommended, after meeting the appropriate slope criteria.<\/div>\n
\n
\n

Title: The Reemergence of Malaria in the United States: Management Plan for Climate Influence and Public Health Preparedness<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s): <\/strong>Global Health Studies, Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> Since the elimination of malaria in the United States in the 1950s, very few cases of malaria are detected within the nation each year, typically brought in through travel from malarious regions. However, in the summer of 2023, ten cases were reported in Texas, Florida, Maryland, and Arkansas that were transmitted domestically, suggesting that malaria may be reestablishing in the continental United States. Climate change is altering the transmission patterns of malaria as temperature and precipitation trends are becoming more favorable for infectious disease transmission with migrating tropics and the expansion of vector-borne diseases. Based on previous mosquito-borne outbreaks in the United States, West Nile Virus in 1999 and Zika Virus in 2015, as well as the current management strategies that are in place, the United States is seemingly unprepared for a malaria outbreak to occur. To assess public health preparedness for a malaria outbreak in the United States, a human health risk assessment was conducted based on the US EPA model with alterations for vector-borne diseases. The risk assessment was prefaced with a deep dive into historical malaria prevalence in the United States as well as previous mosquito-borne outbreaks and a look into currently available malaria prevention and treatment measures.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Based on the risk assessment, it is evident that climate change is having a major influence on malaria transmission, expanding the range of transmission to the United States. As the United States population is vulnerable to severe malaria given the majority of the population does not have previous exposure to the disease, a public health campaign is needed to improve the knowledge, attitude, and behavior of the general population toward malaria prevention. Public health officials and vector-control agencies must work together to manage mosquito control and surveillance as well as educate the United States population on malaria prevention. Federal and state-by-state management plans must be developed based on the climate conditions and practicability of prevention measures in each community to prevent a malaria epidemic in the United States.<\/div>\n
\n
\n

Title: The Creation of a Rain Garden Template and Recommended Sites for Future Rain Gardens on Allegheny College\u2019s Campus.<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2024
\nMajor(s): <\/strong>Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> With global temperatures rising, weather patterns are becoming more and more erratic. This has led to many issues involving water absorption in soils especially in loam and clay based soils such as the ones found on Allegheny College\u2019s campus (Bellocchi G., et al., 2018). As it is one of Allegheny College\u2019s goals to promote sustainability in and outside the classroom I propose Allegheny begin installing rain gardens once again (Sustainability, 2020). Allegheny has not done such in about 10 years (Personal conversation, Kelly Boulton, 2024). There are many benefits that would be provided by the addition of several new rain gardens on Allegheny College\u2019s campus. This would include a reduction of pooling after precipitation events, runoff filtration, increased soil health, as well as provide many benefits to native wildlife. The native wildlife would benefit greatly due to the resources, shelter, food, and water that a rain garden could provide. In order to continue creating rain gardens on campus, the goal of this project was to create a template that Allegheny College could use to more efficiently create rain gardens on campus. As supplementary materials to this template, diagrams of each rain garden were created and 4 separate sites were selected. A plan was not created for each site, but suggestions and the groundwork for each site were laid out including images of each site and how the rain gardens would fit in these spaces.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n

Title: Urban Heat Island Mitigation Strategies for Meadville, PA<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Fall 2024
\nMajor(s): <\/strong>Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> Urban heat islands (UHI) are areas of higher temperatures in cities due to urban infrastructure such as asphalt, concrete, roofs, and a lack of vegetation. UHIs increase health risks because of poor air quality, strain energy systems, and can alter plant cycles (cite). This study aims to address UHIs for a small city, Meadville, Pennsylvania. Using past research and a geographic information systems (GIS) technique, multi-criteria evaluation (MCE), this research identifies suitable areas for implementing three mitigation strategies: green roofs, tree cover, and permeable pavements. The outcomes are a cost-benefit analysis of each strategy as well as maps highlighting suitable areas for implementation of each project. These recommendations provide direction for the city of Meadville\u2019s planners and stakeholders.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Title: Yellowtail blue damselfish (Chrysiptera parasema) response to climate change: Impact of temperature on behavior Date: Spring 2024 Major(s): Environmental Science Thesis Committee: Environmental Science & Sustainability Abstract: Rising ocean temperatures are a major indicator of climate change. Changes in ocean temperature can alter marine ecosystems, such as coral reefs, and the organisms that depend […]<\/p>\n

Continue Reading “Senior Abstracts: 2024”<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":623,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"class_list":["post-6066","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6066","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/623"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6066"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6066\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6071,"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6066\/revisions\/6071"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6066"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":6045,"date":"2026-09-03T09:27:45","date_gmt":"2026-09-03T13:27:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/?page_id=6045"},"modified":"2026-09-03T09:27:45","modified_gmt":"2026-09-03T13:27:45","slug":"abstracts-year-2023","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/senior-projects\/abstracts-year-2023\/","title":{"rendered":"Abstracts Year: 2023"},"content":{"rendered":"

Title: The Filthy Truth: An Environmental Justice Analysis of Public Beaches in Cleveland, Ohio<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>This research takes an environmental justice perspective to analyze three public beaches in Cleveland, Ohio\u2013Euclid Villa Angela Beach, Mentor Headlands, and Edgewater\u2013 to determine if beach quality is lower in Black and low socioeconomic communities than in majority white and upper class neighborhoods. To measure beach quality, trash from each beach was collected along a known distance, and an infrastructure analysis was performed to assess the recreational infrastructure present at each location. Data on each of the surrounding communities\u2019 socioeconomic status was collected and measured the average home value, percentage of population without health insurance, rate of car ownership, percentage of renting residents, Black population, and percent of population living below the poverty line. Data produced in this study revealed that the beach with the highest density of trash had the highest Black population of the communities examined, indicating potential environmental injustice along the Cleveland coastline.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Evaluation of Suspended Sediment Concentration in Woodcock Creek and Tributaries<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Sediment buildup in streams can harmfully impair the quality of water by carrying pollutants such as nutrients, metals, and organic compounds, which can negatively impact water quality and the health of aquatic ecosystems. Sediment evaluations serve as an effective practice to assess stream health, and implications of upstream land use. The Watershed Conservation Research Center (WCRC) at Allegheny College has recently started to plan a potential restoration project on one of the sampled tributaries at Woodcock Creek. As a result, five different tributaries within the Woodcock Creek watershed were evaluated, recording suspended sediment concentrations and turbidity, in effort to show need of repair at one site. The purpose of this study was to 1) gather sediment concentration data for the five tributaries under different flow rates, and compare different concentrations among sites, and 2) gather land cover information and relation to sediment\/turbidity levels. More specifically the study hypothesized that German Run, one of the sampled tributaries, had the largest sediment input and biggest impact to downstream areas of Woodcock Creek. This hypothesis was tested by measuring sediment concentrations and turbidity ratings. Samples were taken under both base flow and storm flow conditions, determined by United States Geological Survey (USGS) gauges placed at Price Rd, one of the main stem sample sites. Results showed that although there was too much variance in the samples to show differences in average concentrations. By testing under different flow conditions, results did show that under high flow conditions, German Run was exceptionally high. Data suggest that German Run has a large negative impact of sediment loading under storm flow conditions, increasing sediment loads downstream. The negative impact of German Run is also highlighted by its poor land cover. This suggest that restoration efforts at German Run should be considered by the WCRC.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: A Study of a River Otter Family on an Island Heritage Trust Property on Deer Isle, Maine<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>North American river otters (Lontra canadensis) have been expanding their range into habitats where they are previously extirpated. This study is designed to observe a romp of North American river otters residing on a strip of private land in Deer Isle, Maine that is recently transferred to the ownership of the Island Heritage Trust (IHT) during 2022. It is in the mutual interests of the Trust and the original land owner to have this strip of land turned into a nature preserve without disrupting or driving away the established otter romp, since they have the potential to be a tourist draw for the preserve. The primary objective of the study is to observe a half-rotation of the otters\u2019 annual behavioral cycle (June 6 \u2013 November 25, 2022) using eight Cuddeback trail cameras for 723.93 trap days. During the study period, there are a total of 655 unique visits, of which 45 are of humans and 20 are river otter detections. The otter visits occurred in June and September through November. The results of this study can be used to propose possible approaches by which IHT could best preserve and protect the resident wildlife while also making the area suitable for the use of locals and other visitors as a future nature preserve.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: How can art inform an audience about the damage caused by sheep dipping?<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Studio Art & Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Industrialized farming has led to the development of damaging practices within the farming industry. This once-modest practice has turned into a billion-dollar operation that prioritizes profit over the welfare of living creatures and ecosystems. Sheep dipping is an industrial farming practice that involves physically dipping live sheep into a liquid solution to eliminate any harmful parasites from their wool. The sheep dip solution, however, is toxic for both the sheep and the environment that the dip is dumped into after use. It is my goal to inform my audience about sheep dipping and its harmful effects through environmental art. My artwork involves a drawing and a motorizing installation to replicate the sheep dipping process. As my drawing is dipped into water it slowly disintegrates over time to show the slow degradation of sheep lives and the quality of the environment. It is my hope that by raising awareness about this harmful practice, more sustainable alternatives and further research into sheep dipping will result.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: The Effects of Agricultural Land Use in North Central Utah on Wildfire Conditions<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Wildfires in the American west have been a phenomenon that have been recorded and combated for the past hundred years. In recent years, wildfire frequency and intensity have increased, as well as national and international awareness. In the state of Utah, the situation is no different than that in other western states. With the surge of wildfires mostly attributed to climate change, I chose to examine through process tracing if the volume of agricultural land in Sanpete, Utah and Wasatch counties had an effect, adverse or not, on the volume of reported wildfires in the aforementioned counties. The three counties were chosen for their geographic location, situated in central Utah with a mix of subalpine forest and grassland steppe, where agricultural land is situated. The counties were also chosen for the density of agricultural land use, with some counties having slightly more or less than others. Examining atmospheric, wildfire and agricultural data gives a look at the role that changing ambient air temperature and precipitation play in the dynamic wildfire situation in Utah. The findings of this research may be used in the future to apply a more definite causation of growing wildfires not only in Utah, but the American west as a whole.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n
\n
<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n
Title: Preventing Another Katrina: A Literature Review of the Disproportionate Effects of Hurricane Katrina on Black New Orleans Residents<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>In 2005, hurricane Katrina made landfall near New Orleans, resulting in over 1,800 fatalities and $125 billion in damage. Katrina had a disproportionate impact on Black residents of New Orleans as a result of historical policies that led to these populations being placed in positions of increased vulnerability. This project consists of a literature review analyzing which policies and trends that occurred before, during, and after the storm were responsible for these disproportionate effects, and seeks to provide recommendations on how to prevent these same trends from recurring during future hurricanes in the New Orleans area.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n
<\/div>\n
Title: Ceramics & Alternative Energy Sources<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>The brick and tile industry is a substantial contributor to the global greenhouse gas emissions and a partial contributor to the planet\u2019s current global climate crisis. This project will examine the issues of the brick and tile industry and explore possible solutions. This approach will examine the corporate brick industry, and apply holistic sustainable practices to that industry through a reimagining of standard processes within the recreational pottery industry. Specifically this paper will examine the use of alternative fuels as well as consciously harvested materials. These sustainable practices include the utilization of waste vegetable oil (WVO) and locally harvested clay. This paper will explore the utilization of the alternative fuel (WVO) as a viable option for firing ceramic objects. Through that lens the paper will generate suggestions suitable for the large-scale brick and tile industries.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\n
\n

<\/p>\n

Title: A Documentary Analysis of Meadville’s Rental Licensing and Inspection Program<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Housing inequality is a disparity in the quality of housing in a community. Unlike its definition this problem is complex and its origin is deeply rooted in the history of our country. As it continues to persist today, it creates severe health, financial, and environmental impacts in neighborhoods across the country. The goal of this project was to create a documentary that can facilitate conversations regarding housing in Meadville it relates to other communities. Rather than solely addressing the technicalities of the issue, the aim of the film was to paint a clear picture of the moral and social dilemmas that feed into the housing issues seen in Meadville. On one hand the film covers an effort made to address housing issues in Meadville, the Rental Licensing and Inspection Program. On the other hand the film covers the opinions and cultural dynamics that contributed to the controversy surrounding the passing of the program, and have continued to feed into the longstanding housing issues in Meadville. The program and its story are used as supporting content while the film mainly focuses on the root of the problem. By making the focus of the film people and not a problem the documentary has the ability to create empathy in viewers. Additionally it could provide them with a timeless change in perspective as opposed to them just acknowledging the topic for a brief moment.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n
Title: Responsible Portrayal of Clean Energy Development Within Fiction<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Eco-literature tends to linger in the pessimist and nihilistic range. Often writers take a critical view not only of environmental policy but of the reasons people may be apprehensive of radical changes toward environmental policy whether it be industrial, energy, or agricultural. Works that take this approach often wander into auras of dystopia and leave readers with feelings of fear rather than understanding and hope. Literature should be an escape and should be the exaltation of the very best-case scenarios that academic study can forecast for us; or at least some should strive for this. This project is a short story that seeks to entwine the ideas of Environmental Science and Energy equity with a literary take that is optimistic and empathetic. Academic science has been widely repeated and accepted, a clean energy transition is necessary. However, many policy approaches fail to account for the reason why this transition may not be feasible under current economic, political and social conditions. Climate change and its roots in fossil fuel consumption cannot simply be spent away by governments and people. I feel that it is important to note that while this is a creative fiction piece, I want to create something that is above all rigorously grounded in the academic consensus of both social and academic sciences when looking at idea policy approaches The outlining and world building process of this project is derived from research into academic consensus and real world case studies. Whereas the literary themes and techniques are drawn from award winning full length novels, namely The Road by Cormac McCarthy and Salvage The Bones by Jesmyn Ward.<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n

Title: Relationships between sedimentation and the diversity of stream macroinvertebrates<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Clean water is an important resource for human health; biomonitoring with macroinvertebrates is one way to measure the impacts of pollution on water quality. Macroinvertebrates are important indicators of pollution and are vital for a healthy ecosystem. Studying sedimentation impacts on aquatic macroinvertebrates provide data on the health of streams and the environmental impacts of land use. Testing the water quality can measure sedimentation levels of streams and if there are high levels of sedimentation, then it is an indication of decreased oxygen levels and loss of instream habitat that can cause a decline of macroinvertebrate richness. In this study, I compared streams that have spanned a gradient of sediment pollution and compared macroinvertebrate communities. I collected and identified macroinvertebrates based on Trichoptera, Ephemeroptera, and Plecoptera (EPT) taxa and then assessed richness among the sample sites. I sampled ten sites from October 2022 to February 2023. All sites are in the French Creek watershed and the sites ranged from different intensities of land use. I combined my data with a larger collection of prior macroinvertebrate samples and assessed how EPT taxa will be affected by land use and sediment in streams across Northwest Pennsylvania. French Creek watershed has a strong species richness and protecting the watershed will conserve and maintain the high biodiversity. Based on my results land usage is a major determinant of macroinvertebrate taxa diversity in streams.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Title: Connecting Children to the Environment through Place-Based Education and Community Involvement in Fredericksburg, Virginia<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>One of the things that are falling away with the digital world is our connection to the world around us. There is a need for change because the world is reaching the tipping point on whether or not we can reverse human-facilitated climate change. One of the ways that this change can be facilitated is by providing an avenue for adults to care for and feel the need to make positive environmental decisions. With environmental education during childhood that emphasizes centering their experiences along with a focus on place-based education, a connection can be drawn. When a connection to the environment is made during adolescence these values persist into adulthood. For this project, I partnered with the Friends of the Rappahannock (FOR) to work in the Rappahannock River located in the city of Fredericksburg, Virginia. FOR is a non-profit organization that works towards river advocacy, education, and restoration within and around the Rappahannock River. They have secured funding from the National Ocean and Atmosphere Association to help aid in applying the essentials of the Meaningful Watershed Educational Experience. The essentials focus on connecting children to their local environment and community. I created a curriculum with the intention to draw this connection and help satisfy the essentials of the Meaningful Watershed Educational Experience With this curriculum students in the Fredericksburg City Schools will be able to have a place-based education curriculum that will foster connections to the environment and the community around them. From this connection, care for the environment during a crucial environmental crisis will be drawn so that they will be able to be environmentally conscious adults.<\/p>\n
\n

Title: Determination of Terrestrial Salamander Abundance Relative to Edge Habitats and Sampling Type on Conserved Properties in Northwestern Pennsylvania<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Amphibians are going through global species declines because of human impacts such as forest fragmentation and other habitat disruptions. Monitoring species declines is important to gather information and conserve species. Salamanders, which are a group of amphibians, are easy to monitor and are essential to habitats because of their roles as keystone and indicator species. As an indicator species, salamanders are sensitive to microhabitat changes in edge habitat areas, which can be created by human interference. Monitoring populations can detect species declines caused by microhabitat changes, but can vary in effectiveness. The objective of this study is to monitor terrestrial salamander abundance in edge and core habitat in a mixed deciduous forest and to determine the best location and sampling method for salamander monitoring. I conducted my study on a property owned by the French Creek Valley Conservancy (FCVC), a local land trust in Northwestern Pennsylvania (PA) from April 2022 to October 2022. I found no significant difference in the number of salamanders between edge and core or sample type. However, my results suggest artificial cover boards are the most effective sampling method, and salamander research should be conducted during the fall. With this information, I hope FCVC can conduct more efficient, accurate, and inexpensive studies on local salamander populations. Monitoring by conservancy organizations like FCVC is important to determine biodiversity on private lands and determine long-term trends in species. Private lands conserved by land trusts like FCVC are important for amphibian conservation as habitat fragmentation continues to threaten amphibian numbers.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

<\/div>\n
\n
\n

Title: The Impact of Fertilizer Runoff and the Clean Water Act in Corn, Rice, and Soybean Production along the Mississippi River, and their connection to the Gulf Dead Zone<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science & History
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>The dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico is considered to be one of the largest in the world. One of the main leading causes is agricultural\/ fertilizer runoff. A majority of the time, this pollution tends to flow in from the Mississippi River. So, in order to understand this cause of pollution, three crops that grow in three states along the Mississippi River were chosen. Corn from Iowa, Rice from Arkansas, and Soybeans from Illinois. The main objectives of this study were to see what fertilizers were being used, what role they played in the spread\/creation of the dead zone, and finally, what role could the Clean Water Act(CWA) could play in addressing this problem. What these crops showed was that demand for fertilizer was high, primarily due to the fact that it helped crops grow tall and produce more yields. The most common type of fertilizer used were ones packed with nitrogen, which is one of the main chemicals found in the dead zone. Regarding the CWA, the Act mainly focuses on point source pollution and leaves nonpoint source pollution(Ag. Pollution) in the hands of the states, yet some help is offered in the form of grants. Providing this analysis and information will allow future students to recognize issues that, for some people, might not seem too urgent. Alternatively, this could give students the opportunity to look deeper into federal environmental policies and look into how policymakers decide exactly what an act will cover and what it might leave out.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

<\/div>\n
\n
\n

Title: A Proposal for a Disc Golf Nature Trail at the Allegheny College Recreation Complex<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Outdoor education programs at all levels serve as ideal theaters not only for physical activity but also the cultivation of critical social skills such as resilience, leadership, and communication – all of which are particularly important in the developing stages of adolescence. The sport of disc golf has exploded in popularity over the last decade for its low entrance costs, minimal invasiveness to the surrounding environment and high social potential. Members of the disc golf community are no strangers to environmental stewardship, either; disc golfers exemplify the innate human desire to spend time in nature while thoughtfully considering the impacts of having a presence there. Holistic sustainability has long been a hallmark of Allegheny College\u2019s organizational goals, which foster engagement with the outdoors through various student-led organizations like the Outing Club and offer unique educational opportunities through its renowned Environmental Science and Sustainability department. The valuable product of such an education is a population that is both informed about problems associated with the physical environment and well-equipped to zealously pursue their solutions. When combined, outdoor recreation and environmental education can become a powerful force for promoting sustainability and awareness. The purpose of this project, therefore, is to explore the potential of a disc golf course for Allegheny College as a guided education program wherein players can be presented different environmental topics relevant to northwest Pennsylvania at each hole in an engaging, nondisruptive manner to their game. The final program is entirely digitized in the form of an ArcGIS StoryMap.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n

Title: Community Action Plan to Combat Gentrification in Latino\/Minority Neighborhoods<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science & Spanish
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>This essay studies the techniques implemented by Latino\/low-income neighborhoods in order to combat gentrification within their communities. The techniques then helped aid in the creation of a general community action plan that could help other Latino\/low-income communities combat gentrification within their neighborhoods. Using case studies I analyzed three historically Latino\/marginalized cities within US territory; Austin Texas, Chicago Illinois, and Puerta de Tierra Puerto Rico. The shift within Austin, Texas due to gentrification can be seen prominently within the past few years due to covid. The east Austin community particularly has used policy and advocacy as a means to fight against developers and wealthy investors. Gentrification within Chicago, Illinois has been a problem since the early 2000s. They have used the creation of grassroots organizations and muralism as their main forms of fighting against forms of gentrification. Murals help beautify the area as well as instill the culture of the community throughout. Puerta de Tierra, Puerto Rico has recently been experiencing huge displacement due to gentrification within their cities. Act 22, placed by the US, has allowed foreigners to avoid paying certain taxes when they move to Puerto Rico. Community members have banded together to create policy and the use of murals as a means to fight and have their voices heard. The three main strategies implemented are policy creation, grassroots organizations and art as a means for all these communities to fight against gentrification. The creation of a mock-up of a CAP was created, but further research can be done to expand\/look into other strategies and case study options in order to implement from a wider pool of data.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Recommendations for Improving Energy Efficiency in Quigley Hall<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>This project uses an ASHRAE level 1 and a partial level 2 energy audit to examine the energy use of Quigley Hall. The primary problem that this is addressing is inefficient energy use in buildings, which results in costs to building owners and can coincide with discomfort for users of the building. A walkthrough of the building was conducted in order to assess it and identify areas to look at more closely. An IR camera was used to identify areas of heat loss from the building and areas that are not sealed. Gas bills from the building in past years were examined to determine how much natural gas the building uses and at what times of the year it is used. It was found that replacing two sets of doors, which were found to allow heat to escape from the inside of the building in large amounts, would be the most beneficial improvement to the examined aspects of the building.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Oh My! Mycelia!<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Increases of atmospheric carbon dioxide through the industrial age of human activity on the Earth has, according to most scientists, caused an alarming rate of global warming resulting in major negative impacts on the environment. Nonetheless, there are still few solutions being developed to reduce this trend. One method of reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide, which has been largely ignored, is the promotion of fungal growth. Fungi have great potential to sequester immense amounts of carbon dioxide. In doing so, the fungi also play a large role in ecosystem restoration, a major necessary component in fighting climate change. Climate change has decreased fungal health globally; therefore, promoting fungal growth could be vital. For these reasons, the experiment outlined in this study is designed primarily to assess which natural forested environments are favorable for greater and faster fungal growth. The results show which tree types, native to western Pennsylvania, promote the most fungal growth when that tree species sheds woody material to the forest floor or when the tree dies and falls, providing fungi with their primary food source, wood. The soil and wood samples were placed in a controlled environment and served as a replication of the woody debris covering forest floor soil as a means to observe how fungi grow under those controlled conditions. With the results of this study, new forest management plans could be developed with the intention of increasing the total mass of fungi that would be capable of sequestering more carbon across the planet.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: A Plan for Reducing Plastic Bottle Consumption at Allegheny College<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Single-use PET plastic bottles are the most commonly used beverage packaging material with the United States consuming over 644 bottles per person and half a trillion being produced annually world-wide. Despite that, less than 5% of bottles get repurposed or recycled with the rest being incinerated, going to landfills, or landing in the ocean. With college campuses being home to some of the top consumers of single-use bottles, they also have the unique structure of an isolated community that is able to tackle this issue. Through bottle bans, social comparison theory, refill stations, and source removal, decreasing our consumption is entirely possible. Using Allegheny College as a case study location, this research provides a step by step guide for decreasing single-use consumption by approximately 50%. Using data from other universities, this guide analyzes methods from other trials, financial considerations, perceived public opinions, and predicted barriers. In action, the research here should provide a clear-cut answer for how to decrease single-use consumption and serve as an adaptable layout for other colleges and universities around the world.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Black Spot Disease on Fish Species in the French Creek Watershed<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Freshwater habitats like French Creek are home to rich biodiversity and various species of plants and animals. In today’s day and age human activity has caused degradation to freshwater ecosystems. These negative externalities that are caused by humans are being experienced first hand by these fish and plant species. The objective of this study is to assess the relationship between stream health and Black Spot Disease parasite loads in fish. Fish were sampled at various sites along French Creek on 3 dates in the fall of 2022. Areas of the stream were electroshocked, fish were collected, and data gathered. Location, species name, and severity of BSD found on each fish was recorded. Additionally, water chemistry data including water temperature, pH and total dissolved solids (TDS) was collected. Data was analyzed to determine if water chemistry metrics were related to the abundance of BSD. It was determined that water temperature, pH, and TDS did not impact the abundance of BSD found on fish species. Future studies should look at snail populations around the same stream locations to see if they are carrying BSD and if so, do any water chemistry metrics affect their abundance of BSD. This in all could draw a correlation between human environmental degradation and disease in French Creek watershed.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Thinking Outside the Box: A GIS-Based Approach for American Kestrel (Falco sparverius) Nest Box Establishment in Northwestern Pennsylvania<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>The American kestrel (Falco sparverius) is a small species of falcon that has declined throughout North America since the mid-1960s, with causes linked to habitat alteration, predation, exposure to rodenticides, and human disturbance in proximity to nest sites. Artificial nest boxes can be provided where optimal habitat exists to aid in bolstering population numbers. Habitat requirements for a breeding pair vary regionally and influence the likelihood of nest box use. This study aimed to provide optimal locations for nest box establishment for Tamarack Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center (TWC) and on state game lands (SGLs) within Wildlife Management Unit 1B for the Pennsylvania Game Commission\u2019s (PGC) Northwest Region to increase conservation efforts in northwestern Pennsylvania. Through a GIS-based approach, land cover was delineated and quantified for 20 nest boxes monitored from 2011-2014 in Warren County. An occupancy rate of 100% correlated with nest boxes being established primarily on grassland, where contiguous grassland habitat is >4.23 ha or contiguous shrubland habitat is >2.95 ha, and where nest boxes are >140 m from a dense forest edge, which served as minimum requirements for the stakeholders. Optimal locations for TWC were 1.2% of the area delineated for a total of 6 sites. Eight of the 12 SGLs assessed had 29 optimal locations across SGLs. Ground truthing optimal locations would verify current land cover and determine places for installation in the field. Establishing multiple nest boxes within a site could increase probability of nest box use and help to diminish competition between kestrels and European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris). Monitoring nest boxes annually would reveal whether a GIS-based approach can be used to identify suitable areas for breeding kestrels.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Industry Agents: Social Connection and Environmental Injustice in Maharashtra<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>The Indian state of Maharashtra is one of the country’s largest industrial centers; its capital, Mumbai, is known as the gateway of India for its optimal geography and contribution to social life (Mookerjee, 2022). While the textile industry is a major contributor to pollution, a thriving textile market is still important to Maharashtra. This is because arts and crafts, such as weaving, is significant to their cultural traditions. A thorough understanding of how social structures within the textile industry and the state operate as well as relational dynamics among social groups\/agents, is crucial to designing a sustainable, inclusive future. In this thesis, I will address the question: How do socio-political relationship structures within the textile industry contribute to environmental injustice in Maharashtra? I expect to synthesize the state of knowledge in this research field to provide a layout for understanding social connection and the role it plays in facilitating a healthy environment with healthy individuals. This includes unraveling the industry to identify different actors and their motivations.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Cooperative Higher Education: Embodied System Change for a Climate Future<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>This project questions how to get to a post-capitalist future capable of combating climate change through the education system, and how education can be used at large to create system change. The introduction begins broadly, centering the argument of how capitalism is inherently not capable of supporting a climate future, and continues by showing how the ideologies of capitalism have morphed into neoliberalism, and further trickled down through the education system. It finishes by outlining tactics to disrupt neoliberalism in education, and the importance of doing so in order to systematically address climate change. The rest of the project is more focused, beginning with the rise of neoliberalism and what that looks like as a hegemony, concretely, all around us. Next, it shows what this means structurally and integrally for the education system, from a heavy administrative presence to devaluing systems used to measure student growth. The project continues by asking what it means to model system change, and this is where I suggest a cooperative approach to higher education, where change of habit is integrated into how life is structured- where a transformative education can be practiced in how we live with and relate to one another. By targeting the root of neoliberal education organization, I argue we can disrupt all norms of a status quo society that drive climate change, thus rebuilding systems of value with connectedness at the core, with space to value the space we inhabit, together. Through living in system change, students will be more equipped to replicate it in the world around them post graduation, therefore being the new hegemonic force reorganizing each sphere of life to align with sustainability.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Creating a Cycle of Giving: A Proposal for a Free Store at Allegheny College<\/em>
\n<\/strong>Date:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> Throughout the clothing production and eventual disposal processes, there are many practices that speak to the unsustainable nature of the clothing industry. These practices involve massive greenhouse gas emissions and heavy water consumption during production, and large amounts of waste when clothes are ultimately disposed of. These challenges are exacerbated by fast fashion, which ultimately speeds up these processes making them much harder to mitigate. This paper explores a possible means to mitigating these challenges on a local level in the city of Meadville, by way of implementing a free thrift store. The paper argues that a free store at Allegheny College offers the school, and the city of Meadville a reasonable solution to economic issues, as well as a sustainable way to engage community members. This paper looks to understand the lifespan of the previous free store at Allegheny College in an effort to understand what a free store may look like at Allegheny and what challenges it may face. Moreover, this paper will investigate the active free store at Oberlin college as a means to show how a working free store can operate. The paper concludes with a two-step proposal that will act as the foundation for a permanent free store at Allegheny College.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Rain Garden Suitability Analysis for Cleveland to Prevent Effects of Combined Sewage Overflows<\/em>
\n<\/strong>Date:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> This study assessed rain garden placement Cleveland, Ohio to prevent the effects of combined sewage overflows (CSOs). CSOs are the discharging of industrial and local waste, along with storm water, into a body of water. They happen when a combined sewer system (CSS) is overwhelmed by the volume of water, and cause environmental, health, and economic issues. To mitigate these problems, a suitability analysis was conducted to produce a map of suitable areas for rain gardens, which are a low-scale infrastructure that can reduce water volume to sewer systems and filter out certain pollutants, using geographic information systems. Four criteria were taken into account to produce a suitability map: slope, distance from roads, distance from CSO outfalls, and land use using raster based data and fuzzy logic to score them. The resulting map displays 5 degrees of suitability, with nearly 8 square miles of highly suitable areas for rain gardens. This map can be used to help guide decisions on where to place rain gardens to maximize their effectiveness in reducing CSOs.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Assessing Acoustic Niche Partitioning in a Temperate Forest and Scrub Bird Community<\/em>
\n<\/strong>Date:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Biology & Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>According to the acoustic niche hypothesis, animals that communicate vocally are expected to modify the timing or frequency of their vocalizations to avoid overlapping in time and frequency with other vocalizing species. In birds, acoustic niche partitioning (ANP) increases with species richness, community intactness, and levels of background noise. Forest and open habitats are expected to differ in their levels of ANP due to differences in how sound propagates between habitats. I investigated ANP in a forest and a scrub bird community using 24 minutes of audio from four forest sites and four scrub sites in northwestern Pennsylvania. ANP was assessed by determining the number of vocalizations that overlapped in time and frequency and comparing the observed number of overlaps to an expected distribution of overlaps generated by randomizing the start time of each vocalization but holding its duration and frequency range constant. Observed overlaps were not significantly lower than the expected distribution of overlaps in any of the sites, indicating that ANP is not occurring within either of the sampled forest or scrub habitats. Failure to detect ANP could be due to differing conditions in temperate vs. tropical environments as well as an artificially high sensitivity to overlap in my methodology. The study indicates temperate birds tolerate some level of acoustic overlap and suggests future conservation efforts should focus on reducing anthropogenic noise in tropical environments, where such noise is more likely to disrupt avian communication systems than in temperate communities.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Effects of Stream Crossing Type on Fish Assemblages and Stream Ecosystem Conditions<\/em>
\n<\/strong>Date:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Culverts are used as road crossings to connect the upstream and downstream reaches of a stream, but they can severely alter habitat characteristics and species assemblages. Many culvert features impede fish biodiversity, movement, and survival therefore restorations of these crossings can be completed to help address these ecological concerns. Paired upstream-downstream assessments determine the effects of restoration of old\/to be replaced culverts and predict the future success of newly replaced culverts. We sampled stream crossing in stream orders 1st \u2013 3rd in the French Creek watershed in northwestern Pennsylvania to evaluate the influence of different road crossing types. Three sites contain old, to be replaced culverts scheduled to be replaced in 2023, four sites contain newly recently replaced culverts, and the last four sites were bridges. We collected fish, abiotic, and stream crossing data at each sample site. We determined NAACC passability scores for each stream crossing. Findings from passability tests show that to be replaced crossings had the lowest passability scores from 0.03 – 0.597 on a scale of zero to one, whereas all bridges and newly replaced culverts had scores > 0.85. These to be replaced culverts were not allowing fish species to move effectively upstream and downstream. Specific species such as suckers and darters were not able to move upstream in these streams of the to be replaced culverts. The Crawford County Conservation District (CCCD) is replacing two of the three to be replaced culverts this year. Our research will set the baseline to see the effects of restoration.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: A Test of the River Continuum Concept in Stream Orders of Varying Human Impact<\/em>
\n<\/strong>Date:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>The River Continuum Concept (RCC) describes the relationship between geomorphological characteristics of streams and their changes in dominant energy sources, resulting in varying macroinvertebrate distribution. However, these relationships only account for streams under healthy conditions and might not predict how streams can be disrupted by anthropogenic influences, like agricultural runoff and urbanization. This experimental study aims to test if streams of varying order more closely follow the functional feeding group trends proposed by the RCC when under healthy, low human impact conditions, as compared to streams of similar order under unhealthy, high human impact conditions. Sample sites were located at first, fourth, and sixth order streams, each paired with a low and high impact site, creating a total of six field study sites within the French Creek Watershed in Crawford County, PA. At each site, data was collected for macroinvertebrate samples, chlorophyll a biomass, various water parameters, nitrogen concentration, and phosphate concentration. Statistical analysis showed a mix of support and contradiction to the proposed hypothesis. The first order pair showed no significant deviations from the RCC despite some stream health differences. The fourth order pair best supported the hypothesis with clear stream health differences affecting RCC adherence. The sixth order stream pair contradicted the hypothesis by having stream health differences which should have negatively impacted the high impact site, but ultimately resulted in that site better adhering to the RCC than the low impact site. These results indicate that human impact does have the potential to cause streams of varying order to deviate from projected trends in the RCC as a result of stream health degradation. However, the severity of deviation and the consistency of impact across stream orders varied between measurements. Further research is needed to solidify trends found and identify pollutants which are degrading these streams.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Impact of Human Activity Levels on Coyote Temporal Behaviors on Presque Isle State Park
\n<\/strong>Date:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Humans and wildlife must adapt to coexist in increasingly overlapping environments. Coyotes (Canis latrans) are one species that share various types of spaces with humans, such as natural recreation areas, and are already known to spatially distance themselves from humans. However, fewer studies have been conducted to determine if coyotes change what time of the day they are most active to avoid negative human interactions. This study examined Presque Isle State Park in Pennsylvania, an area used by both humans and coyotes, to assess if coyotes change when they are active based on different levels of human activity. Between 30 October 2022 and 3 February 2023, two Cuddeback trail cameras were placed at three locations with high, medium, and low human activity. Photos were analyzed for when coyotes were active and what behaviors they were exhibiting. A total of 229 photos were cataloged with 37 individual detections of coyotes. Of the coyote detections, 35 of them were at night. The results support that the coyotes of Presque Isle State Park were nocturnal, especially in areas with high human activity. These results can be used to inform future management plans for coyotes on Presque Isle and educate the public on the wildlife they may interact with while visiting.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Title: Case-Study Analysis of Electrification Efforts at Institutions: Creating Future Recommendations for Allegheny College’s Efforts
\n<\/strong>Date:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Across the globe, as the climate crisis continues to present itself as a rising problem, the need to move away from fossil fuels is becoming all the more clear. The increase of CO2 emissions is one of the leading causes of global warming, and a good portion of that comes from relying on fossil fuels for heating and cooling of residential buildings. To that end, many cities and buildings are moving away from relying on fossil fuels and natural gas for heating and cooling, instead opting to \u201celectrify\u201d their buildings, with technologies that use electricity to generate their power, and are more sustainable and efficient as a result. This effort has extended not just to cities and towns, but to institutions of education as well. At Allegheny College in particular, some of these technologies have already been implemented, such as geothermal heat pumps in some of its academic buildings, as well as its North Village apartment complex, but many of its residential buildings still use natural gas heating. This study will examine Allegheny’s current electrification efforts and energy efficiency in its residential buildings, while also drawing on several other institutions\u2019 efforts through case studies. Based on the findings of the case studies, a few recommendations will be drafted for how Allegheny can continue its electrification efforts going forward.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: \u201cNot Everyone Has the Same Privileges\u201d: Filling the Gaps in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Through Environmental Justice Lessons<\/em>
\n<\/strong>Date:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong>\u00a0Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>One of the seventeen United Nations Sustainable Development Goals is to provide quality education as a way to \u201cpromote lifelong learning opportunities for all\u201d while also ensuring that children especially have access to inclusive and equitable education opportunities by 2030 (United Nations, 2022). This framework does not support the education that will be necessary as the climate crisis worsens because of its lack of clear standards among other issues as well as the complete absence of the discussion of environmental justice (EJ). EJ is largely absent from the goals, targets, and indicators of the SDGs despite the fact that many environmental problems are problems of justice, and some researchers have concluded that the exclusion of an explicit discussion of justice in any of the SDGs could lead to negative consequences for EJ. The subject of environmental education (EE) and its teachings can serve as the intersection between general education and environmental justice that the SDGs severely need, as the foundational teachings of EE dictate that the field is extremely interdisciplinary and center EJ. This research project proposes environmental education lesson plans that focus on EJ through systems-thinking, open-ended questions, and place-based learning to serve as a basis of pivotal EE teachings that reflect the original intention and definition of \u201cenvironmental education\u201d created in the 1977 Tbilisi Conference.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Uptick in Tick-borne Disease: A KAB Survey in Lyme Endemic Northwestern Pennsylvania<\/em>
\n<\/strong>Date:<\/strong> Spri
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>This project investigates the connection between public perception of tick-borne disease and preventive behavior in the endemic area of Northwestern Pennsylvania. Ticks are the leading vector for disease in the United States and Pennsylvania is the leading state in Lyme disease cases. Changing habitat, forest fragmentation, urban sprawl, and climate change are forcing humans and ticks closer together. This increase in human-tick encounters correlates with an uptick in tick-borne disease throughout the state. Without any community-based tick mitigation efforts, all responsibility of disease prevention falls onto the individual. This study places tick-borne disease in the context of global health studies and land use change in the state of Pennsylvania. This study used a Knowledge, Attitude, and Behavior (KAB) survey posted within Facebook Groups and to local environmentally-focused email lists, including the French Creek Valley Conservancy, to gauge perceptions of ticks. Participants were asked about the spread of tick-borne disease, severity of disease, and about their own preventative habits. Results show that participants are concerned about tick-borne disease within the area and that adherence to tick checks, wearing long pants, and using insect repellant are high. However, the survey revealed misconceptions about the ecology of ticks and tick-borne disease. These misconceptions can foster amplified fear surrounding ticks and an avoidance of the outdoors. Understanding the barriers to knowledge and preventative action can help public health officials to address the Lyme-endemic in this area and create community-based solutions. This study is the first to investigate the public perception of tick-borne disease in Pennsylvania.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

<\/p>\n

Title: A GIS Multi-Criteria Analysis of Indoor Radon Risk in Columbia County, Pennsylvania<\/em>
\n<\/strong>Date:<\/strong> Spring 2023
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science &
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Indoor radon is a colorless and odorless radioactive gas that poses a potential threat to all homeowners. When uranium decays in the rocks and soils underlying a house, it forms radon. Radon can escape from the ground and find its way into a home through cracks in the foundation or basement walls. As a result of its radioactive properties, radon is the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. Columbia County, Pennsylvania faces some of the highest radon levels in the state but still has relatively few radon tests performed. A GIS multi-criteria analysis was conducted to better understand the risk that Columbia County faces and encourage proactive testing behaviors. The analysis used an analytical hierarchy process and weighted linear combination approach to first assign weights to radon risk factors including lithology, soil permeability, proximity to faults, water supply, and home age, and then combine them. This produced a radon risk index for the county that identified specific areas that may benefit from additional radon education and outreach. The risk index indicated that almost 50% of the county\u2019s area is classified as high risk. The results of this analysis were made accessible to the public via ArcGIS Story Maps (https:\/\/arcg.is\/efmuX) to help inform Columbia County residents about their home\u2019s radon risk. This approach can be replicated for other geographical areas, as any community can benefit from increased radon awareness.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: A GIS Multi-Criteria Analysis of Indoor Radon Risk in Columbia County, Pennsylvania<\/em>
\nDate: Spring 2023<\/strong>
\nMajor(s): Environmental Science & Global Health<\/strong>
\nThesis Committee: Environmental Science & Sustainability<\/strong>
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Establishing multiple nest boxes within a site could increase probability of nest box use and help to diminish competition between kestrels and European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris). Monitoring nest boxes annually would reveal whether a GIS-based approach can be used to identify suitable areas for breeding kestrels.The American kestrel (Falco sparverius) is a small species of falcon that has declined throughout North America since the mid-1960s, with causes linked to habitat alteration, predation, exposure to rodenticides, and human disturbance in proximity to nest sites. Artificial nest boxes can be provided where optimal habitat exists to aid in bolstering population numbers. Habitat requirements for a breeding pair vary regionally and influence the likelihood of nest box use. This study aimed to provide optimal locations for nest box establishment for Tamarack Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center (TWC) and on state game lands (SGLs) within Wildlife Management Unit 1B for the Pennsylvania Game Commission\u2019s (PGC) Northwest Region to increase conservation efforts in northwestern Pennsylvania. Through a GIS-based approach, land cover was delineated and quantified for 20 nest boxes monitored from 2011-2014 in Warren County. An occupancy rate of 100% correlated with nest boxes being established primarily on grassland, where contiguous grassland habitat is >4.23 ha or contiguous shrubland habitat is >2.95 ha, and where nest boxes are >140 m from a dense forest edge, which served as minimum requirements for the stakeholders. Optimal locations for TWC were 1.2% of the area delineated for a total of 6 sites. Eight of the 12 SGLs assessed had 29 optimal locations across SGLs. Ground truthing optimal locations would verify current land cover and determine places for installation in the field.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Abstract: Title: Policy Analysis of the WASH Systems in Indonesia<\/em>
\nDate: Spring 2023
\nMajor(s): Environmental Science & Geology
\nThesis Committee: Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Indonesia is the largest island nation in the world and in the last two decades, there have been many efforts by the government and various NGOs to alleviate the issue of unsafe sanitation and hygiene. Despite governmental interventions, many regions both urban and rural still lack access to clean water. Safe sanitation and hygiene programs are fundamental as they affect not only the health of a population, but also help to reduce poverty levels, increase food security, ecosystems, and education levels. It is critical to look at the progress and effectiveness of interventions that have been made in regards to sanitation in order to provide recommendations for how to proceed in the future. Not all policies have the same levels of success in different countries and even different regions in a particular nation. Indonesia is an interesting case study because of its unique geographical features which have resulted in a heavily decentralised government and distinct cultural beliefs and traditions. In recent years, the country has focused on educational campaigns, sanitation programs, and microfinance programs to improve its sanitation systems. In this policy analysis, the effectiveness of the various strategies that the Indonesian government has implemented have been analysed, and it was found that a combination of all three programs would be recommended to maximise effectiveness. This paper utilises a four-step rational policy analysis model, in which the policies are first identified and the criteria are established. Based on the criteria (cost, time, equity, and effectiveness), an assessment was completed which found that the STBM and microfinance programmes were ranked as the best overall policies with an overall score of 3.25\/5, followed by the educational programme with an overall score of 2.75\/5. Further analysis found that increased funds, as well as improved communication between different governmental levels, better enforcement policies, and increased training for sanitation and hygiene staff are the main recommendations moving forward in Indonesia\u2019s efforts to improve their WASH systems.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Climate Change in Recent Video Games and Connecting People to the Environment<\/em>
\nDate: Spring 2023
\nMajor(s): Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee: Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Climate nihilism is causing people everywhere to feel a disconnect and hopelessness surrounding the global issue of climate change. Together with climate denialism, where people are doubting just how bad the issue is, the disconnect becomes very hard to overcome. This prevents effective and much needed discussion from occurring. Video games can greatly help combat disheartenment, doubt as to how bad things are, and create a closer relationship to the environment. In this study, I analyzed these elements: the story of each game, the gameplay, background imagery, the climate\/weather, the characters, and the atmosphere (the colors, the soundtrack and the overall tone) in two relatively new games (released in the past five years) that represent climate change and human impacts on the environment. These games are Endling and Rain World. I identified the different ways these issues are presented, the emotions each game produces while playing, and how they can make the player feel connected to the environment. They take place in worlds that have been heavily impacted by human action, peoples\u2019 contribution to the warming of the atmosphere and their daily activities on planet Earth. Nihilism leads to a disconnect that causes people to shy away and distract themselves from thinking about climate change. Video games, with their increasing popularity, and in an indirect way, can be a solution to this.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Climate Change in Recent Video Games and Connecting People to the Environment<\/em>
\nDate: Spring 2023
\nMajor(s): Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee: Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Indonesia is the largest island nation in the world and in the last two decades, there have been many efforts by the government and various NGOs to alleviate the issue of unsafe sanitation and hygiene. Despite governmental interventions, many regions both urban and rural still lack access to clean water. Safe sanitation and hygiene programs are fundamental as they affect not only the health of a population, but also help to reduce poverty levels, increase food security, ecosystems, and education levels. It is critical to look at the progress and effectiveness of interventions that have been made in regards to sanitation in order to provide recommendations for how to proceed in the future. Not all policies have the same levels of success in different countries and even different regions in a particular nation. Indonesia is an interesting case study because of its unique geographical features which have resulted in a heavily decentralised government and distinct cultural beliefs and traditions. In recent years, the country has focused on educational campaigns, sanitation programs, and microfinance programs to improve its sanitation systems. In this policy analysis, the effectiveness of the various strategies that the Indonesian government has implemented have been analysed, and it was found that a combination of all three programs would be recommended to maximise effectiveness. This paper utilises a four-step rational policy analysis model, in which the policies are first identified and the criteria are established. Based on the criteria (cost, time, equity, and effectiveness), an assessment was completed which found that the STBM and microfinance programmes were ranked as the best overall policies with an overall score of 3.25\/5, followed by the educational programme with an overall score of 2.75\/5. Further analysis found that increased funds, as well as improved communication between different governmental levels, better enforcement policies, and increased training for sanitation and hygiene staff are the main recommendations moving forward in Indonesia\u2019s efforts to improve their WASH systems.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Making 306 Poplar Street energy efficient.<\/em>
\nDate: Spring 2023
\nMajor(s): Environmental Science & Geology
\nThesis Committee: Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>The house at 306 poplar street is a duplex that Common Roots purchased to be a part of the co-op corporation that leases the building to tenants. This organization works to make homes as energy efficient as possible to give the tenant the best home quality. In this case, the co-op may have a cash reserve on hand if the building ever goes up for sale. This will give people many different options to take the best step for them. Not only does it help the homeowners get some financial benefit but this will teach these people more money management skills. The Common Roots program wants to have the most energy efficient duplex as possible. In this paper I explore the different options for the program to take to make the home as energy efficient as possible. There are a lot of run down homes in Meadville, the common roots program can make a small difference in someone’s life when they open these homes to a family in need. Throughout this paper I find the best outcome for the program to take to make the homes as sustainable as possible. To find the best solutions for Common Roots I composed a list of renovations that will be helpful when conserving energy. The renovations consist of insolation, heating, cooling, appliances, windows, and non sealing doors. These are a few of the major changes that will have a major impact on energy loss.<\/p>\n

All homes can be energy efficient with the renovations of some major factors that can control the energy flow that is running through the home. To make a home energy efficient there are steps as homeowners that can be taken to use less energy. Some of the renovations that I have found helpful for the common roots program are a Heat Pump, Spray Foam, Windows, and appliances. Each renovation has its own role when it comes to making the home more energy efficient. For a 5 ton heat pump to be installed into the home it will cost roughly 7,000 dollars for the heat pump to be installed. The heat pump will make it possible to have a steady flow of warm air being pumped into the home. To work with the heat pump I recommend that the common roots program isolated the home with spray foam insulation. The spray foam insulation will be the best option to conserve energy and control heat throughout the home. spray foam insulation is more efficient than the fiberglass insulation, due to the fact that there can be a full coverage over the entirety of the home. In the home the windows are not in good condition after all the years the home has been vacant. To have new windows installed the windows can be bought from home depot for 229$ these windows will provide more comfort in the home and will not allow free flowing energy to leave the home. When the home is in full operation I recommend that the program buys energy efficient appliances that will not be using and wasting a lot of energy.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Gull Point: Defining Role of Area Change and Water Level Rise at Piping Plover Habitat<\/em>
\nDate: Spring 2023
\nMajor(s): Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee: Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> In 1987, the United States Army Corps of Engineers created fifty-eight segmented offshore breakwaters to limit the erosion of Presque Isle\u2019s swimming beaches. These breakwaters have affected the erosion of the eastern Gull Point, a unique habitat site for over 300 species of birds. One of these species, the rare Great Lakes Piping Plover, returned to nest naturally at Gull Point in 2016 after a 60 year migratory hiatus, which can be attributed to increased human interaction with the Presque Isle site. This study is an analysis of the changes in area and water level at Gull Point in the years 1939, 1968, 1993, 2005, 2010, and 2018 to determine the viability of the habitat here for Piping Plovers. The effects of the breakwaters on total site area and water level were especially noted, which is present in years 1993, 2005, 2010, and 2018. Using aerial photographs and the ArcGIS program, polygons were drawn over the site for each survey year to determine total site area. Monthly water level data from the US Army Engineer Corp was used to determine yearly average datums for each survey year. The changes in area and water level were plotted along a combo chart to determine a potential relationship. Changes in area at the Gull Point site have been drastic since the late 1930s. Water level over this same period has remained relatively unchanged, as less than a meter rise has been noted since 1939. Since 1968, continued area loss has been noted at the Gull Point site. Between 1968 and 2018, .162 square kilometers (70.434%) of Piping Plover habitable land has been lost due to limited longshore sediment deposition. This reduction in total habitat area subsequently affects the already-endangered Piping Plover population, putting their prospect of nesting naturally at the site at risk.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: The Life of the Family Farmer in Meadville, PA<\/em>
\nDate: Spring 2023
\nMajor(s): Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee: Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Environmental regulation is a key to mitigating climate change and reversing the negative impacts of human behaviors over the past few centuries of greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation. Improvements in environmental treatment can be traced to a complicated history of regulation policies, but these seem to come and go, revealing an inconsistency halting efforts to improve human and environmental interactions. One key step in mitigating climate damages begins with urban areas that have higher populations and industry, producing more pollution and waste. This project aims to examine the Climate Action Plans of a few cities in the United States in order to determine what political factors help contribute towards relative success. Through a process tracing approach, four cases were selected. Results indicate a few influential variables that influenced the creation of Climate Action Plans in U.S. cities, like disaster preparedness, political entrepreneurship, and mandates distributed by superior institutions.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Il ne faut pas g\u00e2cher, il ne faut pas gaspiller : Exploring Waste as the Solution to Hunger in France since Victor Hugo\u2019s Les Mis\u00e9rables (1862)
\nDate: Spring 2023
\nMajor(s): Environmental Science, French
\nThesis Committee: Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>My project, titled \u201cIl ne faut pas g\u00e2cher, il ne faut pas gaspiller : Exploring Waste as the Solution to Hunger in France since Victor Hugo\u2019s Les Mis\u00e9rables (1862)\u201d answers the question \u201cHow are representations of hunger and waste in Victor Hugo\u2019s Les Mis\u00e9rables (1862) related to contemporary, French food and waste policies?\u201d Hunger, food insecurity, and waste are three prominent, intertwined issues that impact populations around the world. Although these are global issues, the French have recognized the prevalence of these problems within their own country and taken action against them. France has one of the strongest approaches when coping with these issues because they have well-supported policies and initiatives around food insecurity and waste. Since 2016, France has implemented four national laws, initiated one international strategy, and supported international efforts against hunger, food insecurity, and waste. Knowing these remain prominent issues today, through a series of 35 interviews in the Spring of 2022 in Paris, France, I found that, even 161 years after its publication, Les Mis\u00e9rables exerted considerable influence on the images of everyday French people had of hunger. In Les Mis\u00e9rables, Hugo offers one solution to hunger: properly using [human] waste. In contemporary policies and initiatives, fighting food insecurity relies on waste reduction. Relying on political theory connecting policy to culture, I explore the relationship between images of hunger and waste in Hugo\u2019s Les Mis\u00e9rables and contemporary French policies and initiatives.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: The Number One Way to Go Number Two: Proposing the Best Composting Toilet Model for Allegheny College’s Campus
\nDate: Spring 2023
\nMajor(s): Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee: Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>As climate change and human impact continue to strain our planet’s natural habitats and resources, water scarcity is becoming a pressing concern and is projected to have devastating implications for areas already suffering from lack of water availability as well as areas that are not currently water scarce, but will be in the future. In an effort to find and promote alternative solutions to wasteful water usages in everyday life, I propose that Allegheny College should implement a composting toilet facility on their campus. I researched existing toilet brands as well as local legal guidelines and narrowed my focus to three potential toilet models that are best suited for Allegheny College and then compared them in capacity, cost, and maintenance. The results of the analysis showed that the Clivus Multrum M54 Trailhead composting toilet is the best suited model for Allegheny College, on the grounds of convenience and legality and would work well in any location on campus or campus owned.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Stop Moving So Fast: Reframing the Environmental Narrative through Photography
\nDate: Spring 2023
\nMajor(s): Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee: Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Environmental photography has been a valuable asset for portraying what is going on around the world. Pictures of a lone malnourished polar bear on a drifting piece of ice, wildfires raging through forests, air pollution engulfing cities, and pollution in waterways are what people are shown to represent that there are environmental problems around the world. People become numb to this chaos because they see these kinds of pictures over and over. What if instead of a negative narrative of the environment through photography, there was a positive narrative captured through photography? I took pictures around Allegheny College\u2019s campus with a digital camera to capture images someone may not see on a daily basis. The pictures captured get the viewer to look closer and slow down. So maybe this way, people will respond better to saving the environment and slowing down climate change. There were 14 pictures in the end. The images were displayed in 2 frames: a larger one 27\u201dx40\u201d and a smaller one 4\u201dx6\u201d. Further research will need to be conducted in order to assess whether this kind of photography actually does get people to react differently to the environment.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Federal Support for Sustainable Agriculture: Funding and Policy Analysis of the 2018 Farm Bill
\nDate: Spring 2023
\nMajor(s): Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee: Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Conventional- often times called \u201cindustrial\u201d- agriculture is linked to numerous issues working against the interests of environmental, social and economic sustainability. A key influence in agricultural policy is the Farm Bill- an omnibus bill renewed every five years to dictate regulations and federal spending choices in the arena of all things farming and food. With every Farm Bill there is a gradual increase in attention, and therefore money, paid towards programs and initiatives aimed at making sustainable agriculture more accessible for producers, as well as the communities that consume their products. However, with the context of the climate crisis, which is already disrupting agricultural systems alongside other persistent forms of environmental degradation, it is apparent that more needs to be done to ensure there are better federal standards to ensure a more sustainable future in agriculture. This project examines the funding implications of the 2018 Farm Bill in relation to sustainable agriculture and presents suggestions for policy in the upcoming renewal of the bill occuring in 2023.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: The Fungi of Bousson: Creation of a Fungarium
\nDate: Spring 2023
\nMajor(s): Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee: Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Fungi are an essential kingdom of life: a crucial part of forest ecosystems, having symbiotic relationships with 60% of all trees in the world and over 80% of all plants; are part of the food web, and they decompose old biomass to be used for new growth. Unfortunately, they are understudied, in part due to mycophobia, as they are associated with disease and death. Therefore, there has been a historical aversion to and neglect of them in western science. In fact, it is estimated that only .3% of total species have descriptions. As a result, there is little information available on fungi, and not much is understood about their diversity, ecosystem roles, and conservation needs. This leaves fungi vulnerable.<\/p>\n

This project aims to create a starting point for future mycological research at Allegheny College through the collection, documentation, and preservation of the fungi of Bousson from October-November 2022. The creation of a fungarium, a collection of dried fungi, allows for a wealth of potential future research into topics such as phenology, population genetics, range shifts, ecology, phylogeny conservation biology, and more. This project further works to encourage the public to find fascination with fungi through the creation of an ArcGIS StoryMap. The story map displays photographs of each fungus accompanied by a fun fact, linked to the location in Bousson in which it was discovered.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Appreciating French Creek
\nDate: Spring 2023
\nMajor(s): Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee: Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>An exploration of French Creek and appreciating its uniqueness, through a video journalism piece. To bring awareness of a natural treasure within the local community. Including an interview with Wendy Kedzierski, Project Director of Creek Connections, to acknowledge her admiration for French Creek and the community surrounding the watershed. In addition, studying the history of French Creek from the once booming industrial area to the previous northward flow of the creek during the ice ages. Further, exploring the biodiversity within the creek and potential threats that would harm this, along with the vast amount of endangered species living within French Creek. While examining the community involvement, whether it’s through recreating on the creek or with one of the educational programs. Additionally, touching on the legal rights of natural resources and what causes these legal issues. Along with potential environmental hazards within the French Creek watershed that could lead to legal rights being pursued and\/or granted to French Creek. All while understanding that the best way to protect French Creek is through education about the extraordinary, local treasure.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: How well do Ganoderma Sessile mycelia grow on sawdust and spent coffee grounds?
\nDate: Spring 2023
\nMajor(s): Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee: Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong>Mycelium has the potential to be a low-energy method for upcycling abundant agricultural by-products and wastes into more sustainable alternatives to energy-intensive materials. This study investigates the potential of spent coffee grounds and sawdust as substrates for the growth of mycelium, which can be used as a biobased material, specifically with furniture in mind. Samples were prepared using various ratios of the two substrates. The mycelium was allowed to grow until the substrate was consumed, after which the samples were then dried and tested for density and flexural strength. The results indicate that spent coffee grounds showed a higher density and flexural strength than sawdust. Furthermore, the samples grown using a 50% coffee ground to 50% sawdust ratio showed the best performance, with the highest density and flexural strength. These findings suggest that spent coffee grounds have great potential as a sustainable and low-cost substrate for mycelium growth, which can be used to create biobased materials in the future. Using spent coffee grounds as a substrate for mycelium growth is particularly promising, as it provides a solution for the disposal of a waste product while simultaneously producing a valuable biobased material.<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Independent Variables Leading to Climate Action Plans in U.S. Municipalities<\/em>
\nDate: Fall 2023
\nMajor(s): Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee: Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>The field of environmental science and agriculture are often adversaries. Environmental scientists and policymakers often target farming as a major contributor to a multitude of environmental issues such as air pollution, land degradation, and waterway pollution, and activist groups spread this message to the wider public. This project investigates questions of farming, the environment, and ethics by supplementing such academic research with live interviews and tours of two different local farms, Spruce Row Farm and Heagy\u2019s Farm. I encountered the farmers\u2019 struggles with the different governing environmental bodies, finances, working with family, animal health, and their own perspectives on organic and green farming. As I learned firsthand the life of the family farmer in Meadville, Pennsylvania, I came to recognize the inaccuracy of applying this universal environmental stigma to the family-farming framework.<\/p>\n

This writing is formatted as a long-form journalism piece, striving to accurately portray the farmers as well as intertwining my own perspective and thoughts. It is curated to be entertaining, using easily-accessible language to enable a general public audience to read and gain insight into the true life of the family farmer. Scientific research and interviews are brought to a head, playing up the conflicting narratives of the \u201cunenvironmental\u201d farmer image with the realities of life on a small farm. Scientific writing about farming excludes the subjects\u2019 voices, whereas I empower the farmers\u2019 voices through my research. This writing challenges the true identity of farming, how farming relates to the environmental science field, and what responsibility farmers on a family scale truly hold to reforming practices to be more environmentally conscious.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Title: The Filthy Truth: An Environmental Justice Analysis of Public Beaches in Cleveland, Ohio Date: Spring 2023 Major(s): Environmental Science Thesis Committee: Environmental Science & Sustainability Abstract: This research takes an environmental justice perspective to analyze three public beaches in Cleveland, Ohio\u2013Euclid Villa Angela Beach, Mentor Headlands, and Edgewater\u2013 to determine if beach quality is […]<\/p>\n

Continue Reading “Abstracts Year: 2023”<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":623,"featured_media":0,"parent":292,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"class_list":["post-6045","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6045","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/623"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6045"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6045\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6064,"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6045\/revisions\/6064"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/292"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6045"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":6004,"date":"2026-07-22T15:04:24","date_gmt":"2026-07-22T19:04:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/?page_id=6004"},"modified":"2026-07-29T14:00:09","modified_gmt":"2026-07-29T18:00:09","slug":"abstracts-year-2022","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/senior-projects\/abstracts-year-2022\/","title":{"rendered":"Abstracts Year: 2022"},"content":{"rendered":"

Title: Road Salt Effects on Freshwater Ecosystems in the Northeastern United States<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>This study investigates the effects of road salt applied to roads near a body of water on freshwater ecosystems, specifically in the headwater streams that feed into French Creek in Crawford County, Pennsylvania. The sodium levels were observed through water sample collections from ten total different points throughout two different bodies of water, Gravel Run and Cussewago Creek in October 2021, January 2022, and February 2022. Gravel Run feeds into French Creek from the east, and Cussewago Creek feeds into French Creek from the west. The collection sites were recorded from upstream to downstream, anticipating that the samples collected more downstream would have lower sodium levels due to the potential for dilution as the water is carried further downstream. The resulting control sodium levels proved to be relatively low, averaging about 3.6 ppm. The sodium levels that were collected after salt was heavily applied to the roads indicated that at almost all of the collection sites, there was an increase in the sodium level, indicating a higher salt presence. The samples taken during winter time averaged a sodium level of 4.9 ppm. The final round of samples, collected after heavy rainfall, indicated an average of 5.3 ppm of sodium. There was a general upward trend in the levels of sodium levels across the three collection months, indicating that the presence of road salt on roads parallels an increase in the sodium levels in the nearby waterways. The resulting sodium levels at various points down the creeks indicated that sites close to roads (relative to sites further away or downstream from these sites) indicated higher levels of sodium, or a higher presence of road salt or potential for road salt to affect the water chemistry in these locations. The implications of the high presence of road salt and similar sodium content has the ability to alter ecosystems and create an environment not suitable for native organisms.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Instagram vs. Reality: A Social Media Analysis of #Vanlife<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>During the Covid-19 Pandemic social media use was at an all time high. Vanlife is an activity that produced interesting content and was also able to be done remotely. The use of the #vanlife was at an all time high as beautiful nature scenes and completely custom renovated vans began filling social media users feeds. What once was a simple term referring to someone who lived in a van, #vanlife began to represent so much more. In order to determine themes present in the #vanlife movement, a social media analysis was conducted to critique the environmental tones present within the #vanlife movement. The analysis found that posts labeled with the #vanlife on Instagram shared more than just one hashtag with the same themes weaving in and out of the posts analyzed. While vanlife as a basic idea may be sustainable, the version of vanlife represented by #vanlife is not a sustainable movement that people should seek out if trying to limit their environmental impact.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: The Banana Plantation Project in Costa Rica: Uncovering Social Realities through Postcolonial Ecocriticism<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>An invasive plant hopping insect from East Asia, the Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) has spread throughout the eastern United States and is moving west since its introduction to the Berks County region of eastern Pennsylvania. The damage this pest creates in large groups is very high, and has the ability to spread across many parts of the world. Crucial industries like agriculture and manufacturing are affected, costing nations hundreds of millions of dollars each year. This occurs in different ways throughout the Spotted Lanternfly lifecycle, ranging from egg laying to mass tree sa consumption, to even negatively impacting endemic plant and animal species. My study looked at different SLF(Spotted Lanternfly) management plans, other invasive species monitoring plans, and Spotted Lanternfly movement\/breeding patterns to find which methods are most effective in preventing the spread as well as mitigating damage at Allegheny College. The campus was evaluated to determine areas most at risk to invasion, and the methods of treatment should an infestation occur. The goal of this work is for any current or future person who is in any way involved on campus to be able to locate, identify, and potentially deal with any Spotted Lanternfly-related issue that may happen in the near future. The end result was the Carr Hall garden and the Ravine Hall treeline were identified as \u201cpriority landscapes\u201d, meaning not only are they most at risk of Spotted Lanternfly infestation, but their impact on Allegheny College\u2019s campus is the largest should it become infested in comparison to other campus locations.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Quantum Mechanics in Climate Science: An In-Depth Review of its Incorporation in Analyzing Climate Change and the Quantum Behaviors of Carbon Dioxide<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science & Physics
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>The identification of effectual climate shifts and their causes are not uncommonly known through biological and chemical analyses (such as examining the effects of climate change on wildlife or studying the basic composition of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere). However, one of the most accurate approaches in attempting to begin to understand and resolve the climate crisis involves an area of study rarely associated with climate change or other environmental problems. Quantum mechanics involves one of the most essential theories in physics that provides an in-depth understanding of the smallest to scale physical properties of nature, such as atoms and subatomic particles. It is an incredibly theoretical and elaborate field that disproves nature is physically as simple as classical physics initially represented it to be. How can such a distinct subject be correlated so perfectly to climate science? Through multiple analyses and detailed research, we can come to a conclusion regarding this connection (Ghil & Lucarini, 2020).<\/p>\n

<\/div>\n
\n

Title: The Banana Plantation Project in Costa Rica: Uncovering Social Realities through Postcolonial Ecocriticism<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science & Spanish
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Banana plantations in Costa Rica function as spaces that sustain neocolonial processes, simultaneously harming plantation workers, communities that surround plantations, and the environment. Their presence is rooted in the relentless occupation of transnational corporations, which most notably include the long-time occupation of the United Fruit Company. Additionally, banana transnational corporations that have spawned from the United Fruit Company continue to perpetuate devastating hegemonic control over Costa Ricans today, such as Chiquita Brands. However, the academic literature discussing the occupation of these transnational corporations in Costa Rica focus on historical overviews or political interventions. Missing from these discourses is a recognition of social histories that have been applied to other plantation societies in Latin America. As such, shifting attention to other forms of texts can illuminate the human condition in relation to the impacts of transnational banana corporations. Both literary fiction and nonliterary texts can provide valuable insights to uncover social realities in Costa Rica, both in historical and contemporary contexts. This paper draws upon Joaqu\u00edn Guti\u00e9rrez\u2019s novel, Mur\u00e1monos, Federico, as well as nonliterary texts, such as news articles, interviews, and testimonies that discuss plantation workers and vulnerable communities that surround plantations. In analyzing these texts through the theoretical framework of postcolonial ecocriticism, attitudes regarding foreign influence and socially constructed hierarchies that amplify dangerous neocolonial processes become evident. These exist in conjunction with the environmental degradation and harm against humans that banana plantations maintain. In uncovering and centering how the human condition is impacted by transnational banana corporations, reparative modes of praxis can be administered that can improve workers\u2019 rights, human health, and the environmental condition in Costa Rica.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Psychological Distance, Emotion Regulation, Affect, and Action Intentions in Response to Climate Change<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science & Psychology
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Climate change is a threat to the planet as well as people\u2019s physical and mental health. When confronted with the effects of climate change, people must emotionally regulate their feelings or face negative affect such as guilt for their own contributions, fear, and nervousness about the future. Emotional regulation strategies such as distancing, self-change, and repairing damage may be employed. Additionally, people may intend to participate in actions that aim to face the uncertainty of climate change. Psychological distance influences risk perception, which, in turn, is predicted to influence how emotional regulation is executed, and which feelings people experience in response. 140 participants residing in the United States were randomly assigned to either a distant or near condition. In the near condition, participants were asked to look at images of and read about the Minnesota Greenwood Fire and how forest fires are influenced by climate change. The distant condition read about the 2021 Greece wildfires. Participants then completed the Inclusion of Others in Self Scale, PANAS, Emotional Regulation Questions, and a survey about their action intentions. It was predicted that negative affect and action intentions would be greater in the near condition, and emotional regulation strategies would differ between the two conditions. The results did not support these hypotheses. Understanding the relationship between these variables may help us to understand climate inaction.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: BaSCOT: Battery and Solar Capacity Optimization Tool Using OR-Tools<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>As extreme weather conditions worsen due to climate change, resiliency is becoming an increasingly attractive feature of energy systems. Basic implementation of renewable energy sources such as solar panels causes power production to become more intermittent, resulting in lower resiliency. Battery storage can help to alleviate this problem, but sizing an appropriate solar energy and battery storage system is difficult due to the complexity of the factors involved. Linear programming and mixed-integer linear programming can be used to optimize solar energy and battery storage, but current tools such as REopt do not offer enough flexibility for users to adjust the function of the program. The objective of this project was to develop a tool that is more flexible than existing options, allowing for applications in a wider variety of renewable energy projects. BaSCOT is a tool developed for this project that takes local solar and energy data, and designs systems resilient to 24-hour periods of power failure, optimized for cost savings. In addition to information on the sizes and costs for solar and battery installation, the program also produces several graphics detailing specific information about the 24-hour outage period and the lifetime savings of the system.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: The Impact of Spatial Resolution on Land Cover Mapping: A Small Watershed Case Study<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Terrestrial remote sensing, the contactless recording of electromagnetic radiation via film or sensors mounted on airborne or spaceborne platforms, can be used in the creation of land cover data. Image classification is the process of assigning meaning to raw spectral data by identifying different features and separating them into informational classes. In this study, supervised, object-based classification was utilized to create fine resolution land cover data for a subset of small watersheds in northwestern Pennsylvania. This land cover data was compared to data obtained from the National Land Cover Database, which has a much coarser resolution, in order to examine differences between the two, determine where potential misclassifications occur, and assess which method is a more accurate and efficient option. Error matrices were utilized to verify the accuracy of each image classification, resulting in an average accuracy of 96.6%. The differences in the percentage of natural cover, agriculture, and developed land in the classified images and the National Land Cover Database were calculated and averaged, with the largest differences occurring in the developed category. Overlay analysis was utilized to further examine how much the two data sources differed. Only 14.5% of the pixels classified as developed by the National Land Cover Database received the same classification in the classified images, with 80% receiving a different classification. This tendency of the National Land Cover Database to overrepresent developed land could influence decision making in various studies that rely on having accurate land cover data. Although additional effort is required, image classification may represent a more accurate method of obtaining land cover data for use in large-scale watershed analysis.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Global BIPOC Climate Activism vs. Mainstream Environmentalism: A Case Study<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>This project draws attention to the shortcomings of mainstream environmental movements. Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) youth climate activists throughout the globe, especially those coming from majority-world countries, are all too often ignored and discredited for their contributions to environmentalism by mainstream environmental movements, along with media and academic institutions that partake in environmental discourse. The fact that many of these BIPOC climate activists are also experiencing the climate crisis more quickly and severely than those from relatively white, wealthy, and Western countries shows the risk(s) and violence that can be tied to erasure, oppression, and marginalization. As a result of various forms of globalized systemic oppression, white activists (particularly those from wealthier, industrialized countries), receive more attention, credit, and coverage relative to the climate work they are doing compared to other climate activists that are working out of majority-world countries and small-island communities. White voices from wealthy countries are given precedence over those of global BIPOC climate activists, and so are their contributions and concerns relative to climate change discourse and decision making. These omissions result in the deliberate erasure of environmentalists who do not readily conform to mainstream ideas surrounding environmentalism that are rooted in globalized forms of white supremacy. This project employs a case-study approach to examine the implications of these shortcomings, paired with an analysis of the strategies being utilized by climate activists and groups in various parts of the world to combat these oppressive systems today. These case studies can be used by climate activists across the globe who are working to uphold climate justice within their own communities in their battle against oppressive institutions and corporations.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: The Plight of Poecilotheria: Promoting Positive Attitudes Towards Tarantulas Through Wildlife Education<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Due to bias against arachnids and a lack of general public knowledge surrounding tarantulas, many people are fearful of these animals and hold various misconceptions about them. This lack of appreciation and awareness prevents endangered tarantulas, such as those of the Poecilotheria genus, from receiving the conservation efforts and protection that their wild populations so desperately need. Past studies have shown that, through exposure and effective environmental education, people are able to become more comfortable with arachnids due to a better understanding of their behavior. This study aimed to determine successful aspects of wildlife education and incorporate them into a lesson plan that was then tested on Allegheny College students. Through review of scientific literature and established programs, building empathy and the use of ambassador animals were identified as the two most crucial components for facilitating a lasting connection between the target species and participants. This influenced the implementation of live specimens, interactive molts, and a presentation on tarantula anatomy and behavior in the lesson plan. A presentation on the threats faced by Poecilotheria was also included in order to raise awareness and promote positive attitudes surrounding their conservation. A total of 32 students attended the three hour-long programs and were asked to take a survey on their experience. Based on these results, it was found that, regardless of their initial feelings, 90.6% (N= 29) of participants left the program with a positive attitude towards tarantulas, and 100% (N= 32) left the program feeling that conservation of endangered tarantula species should be more prioritized. Although these responses indicate that the lesson plan was successful in improving people\u2019s attitudes, further research should be done with other age groups and a greater sample size.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Climate Change Displacement and International Policy: How could the current framework for conflict refugees be applied to people displaced by climate change?<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science & Political Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> The impact of climate change on our environment is expected to cause people to lose their homes and livelihood across the globe. In international law today there are no binding protections for people who flee the indirect and direct impacts of climate change. This paper will examine the future of displaced people as expected under the protection provided by the 1951 Refugee Convention. Using two case studies to examine how the current protection is used and how it might apply to those who might be displaced in the future, this paper hopes to find a pathway for the growing number of people displaced. The first case study is on El Salvador during its civil war from the 1970s to the 1990s, which led to thousands of people fleeing in search of refuge. Then Kiribati, an island in the Pacific Ocean experienced the impacts of climate change such as sea-level rise, erosion, land degradation, loss of ecosystems, and frequent natural disasters. The impact of climate change has the potential to cause millions of people to experience disruptions of movement and the international community needs to determine the proper measures are in place for the future.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Just How Green Are the Green Boxes? A Deeper Look into the Environmental Factors Of The Green Boxes and the Compostable Containers.<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>N\/A.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Making Your Own Way: A Personal Public-Transit Narrative in the Story of the Climate Crisis<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> Reducing the greenhouse gas emissions of the global transportation sector is one of the most widely recognized and impactful ways of minimizing the effects of human-induced climate change. Promoting and enhancing intercity public-transit options, namely trains and buses, can provide some of the greatest climate benefits and GHG reductions when comparing ways to reorganize nation-scale transportation systems. However, the United States lags behind many nations when it comes to the adoption of these climate-smart solutions due to political and economic opposition and ingrained cultural biases. This story seeks to provide an alternative framework for examining the current transportation system in the United States that encourages its readers to engage in socio-political action to improve intercity public transportation in the United States by following and detailing the joys and hardships of a journey made in the United States entirely by bus and train. This story is told as a creative nonfiction piece in order to increase relatability between the author and the reader, and to engender a deeper and more personal investment by the reader in the subject matter. My hope is that my reader\u2019s not only enjoy reading the fruits of my travel, but that they better understand the necessity of fundamental transport reform. By equipping my readers with significant amounts of relevant information and talking points, as well as first hand accounts of the current on-the-ground situation, I prepare them to engage with cultural and political dialogues that can affect real climate progress.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: The Faerie Plague: An Environmental Faerie Tale About Chytridiomycosis<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> English & Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> Amphibians are an incredible group of organisms but are sadly facing population declines due to a common disease. The fungal disease chytridiomycosis affects about a third of all amphibian species and threatens them with extinction. Discovered in the late 1990s, chytridiomycosis continues to present a major obstacle for those who wish to preserve amphibian species. This paper describes the issue posed by chytridiomycosis and discusses the writing of a fictional story in the genres of science fiction\/ fantasy focusing on an imagined amphibious humanoid species suffering from chytridiomycosis. This written narrative, of which four chapters were completed, portrays the environmental issue of chytridiomycosis in a manner that is educational with the goal of evoking an emotional reaction in readers.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Minimizing Losses in Flexible Luminescent Solar Concentrators Doped in Lumogen Red 305 Dye Using an Integrating Sphere<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science & Physics
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> Luminescent Solar Concentrators (LSC) are made of a fluorescent organic dye embedded in translucent material where light can pass through. The fluorescent dye Lumogen Red 305 is used to harvest more light in a waveguide to concentrate on a photovoltaic cell to increase power output. Using LSCs raises the efficiency of a photovoltaic device, making them a more flexible and cost-effective option. They are especially ideal in agricultural settings where they can act as a greenhouse roof and still provide power. LSCs experience many light losses and understanding where these losses occur can help to improve LSCs. To understand how light interacts with an LSC, an integrating sphere with a green laser at 532 nm is used. Escape cone losses, non-unity quantum, and internal optic efficiency are determined in this study from spectroscopy data created with Ocean View Software. Flexible disc-shaped LSCs in both Top-Mounted and Bottom-Mounted solar cell designs absorb 99% of the incident light. From the light that is absorbed, over half of the light is lost from escape cones and not concentrated on where a solar cell would be mounted.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: The Role of TikTok in Environmental Justice Activism: A Closer Look into the Flint, Michigan Water Crisis<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>This study examines the role of TikTok in spreading awareness on environmental justice issues such as the Flint, Michigan Water Crisis. The Flint, Michigan Water Crisis is a major event that was officially declared in 2015. The water in Flint, Michigan was contaminated with lead when the city switched water sources without the proper corrosive control. As a result, residents of Flint were poisoned with lead. Lead poisoning disproportionately affects children, and since the crisis was covered up by government officials, the lives of an entire generation will permanently be altered by the event. This study looks at the social media platform TikTok in order to visualize the attitudes and feelings of Flint, Michigan residents. It also analyzes how residents are sharing information about what happened during the first five years of the crisis. This study also examines the role of TikTok in the aiding of informing younger generations on environmental justice issues. After analyzing twenty seven TikToks, it was concluded that the water crisis is still ongoing, and that TikTok is becoming a useful platform for activists surrounding the Flint Water Crisis.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Robin\u2019s Ribbiting Wetland Wonders: Blogging for Environmental Education<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Environmental education can increase environmental awareness and appreciation, which can lead to environmental action that aids in the conservation of ecosystems such as wetlands that provide many valuable ecosystem services. However, human activities, particularly those that cause habitat loss or degradation, threaten wetlands. Wetlands along with schools and organizations that work toward environmental education would all benefit from a blog that teaches students about wetlands and encourages them to take environmental action. I created an educational wetland blog that used descriptive writing, pictures, and videos to foster an interest in wetlands among high school students; educate students about the organisms, ecology, value of and threats to wetlands; and ultimately recommend some form of environmental action that will benefit wetlands. I utilized techniques for blogging for environmental education and inspiring environmental action following a review of current environmental blogs. I made 16 weekly blog posts throughout the Fall 2021 semester that made use of my observations at a small wetland and scientific resources. This wetland blog was intended to enhance environmental education by imparting enjoyment, interest, and knowledge to readers.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Determining the Most Suitable Sites for Large Scale Ground Mount Solar Arrays in Tompkins County, NY Using GIS-Based Fuzzy Logic.<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Climate change is a global danger that must be addressed through reducing carbon emissions. Many global initiatives have been created through groups like the United Nations, but these have had limited impact as seen in the United Nations climate reports. Local governments have been more successful in passing and implementing green policy that seeks to decarbonize their region. In Tompkins County New York, the city of Ithaca has passed a green new deal which seeks to use renewable energy as part of the decarbonization initiative. Geographic information systems combined with multi-criteria evaluation techniques are a common and successful method for determining ideal locations for renewable energy facilities to be built. This study uses GIS-based multi-criteria evaluation practices, combined with fuzzy set theory, in order to determine the most suitable locations in Tompkins county for the construction of large scale ground mounted solar arrays of approximately 10 acres in size. The fuzzy set model uses multiple economic variables such as proximity to roadways and proximity to powerlines. The model also considers environmental variables such as solar irradiance or land cover in order to make decisions that will consider multiple important criteria at once. The model identified 5 potential sites in the study region, and 3 of them were recommended for further study. Highly suitable areas represented 37% of the study region. With more than a third of the county considered highly suitable for solar installations, it is likely that stricter models could be successfully used to refine results. This model provides a resource for decision-makers in Tompkins County, and also created a reproducible model for use in studies on other regions.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: The Design of a Green Space for the Improvement of Mental Wellbeing.<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Green space is an important element for the bettering of the health and vitality of any population, especially for college students. Many studies have shown the link that green spaces can have with improved mental well-being. At Allegheny College in Meadville, Pennsylvania, green space and sustainability are a priority. The Allegheny campus is host to several green areas but none focused on the students mental health. As such the addition of another green space on the Allegheny campus next to Pelletier would benefit students by giving them a comfortable space outdoors that would help to improve their mental health. The purpose of this project is to find what elements make a green space beneficial to mental health and to use that information to design a green space for the Allegheny campus.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Juvenile drift of round gobies (Neogobius melanostomus) in the French Creek watershed as a means of range expansion<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> A newly introduced invasive fish, the round goby (Neogobius melanostomus), was discovered in the French Creek watershed in 2014 and is threatening the unique biodiversity within the stream system. Management strategies of this invasive species depend on accurate information about many life history strategies, including dispersal mechanisms. Most research on round goby natural dispersal within the French Creek watershed focuses on adults, but juvenile drift may be a form of downstream dispersal in French Creek that has not yet been examined. Juvenile drift of round gobies has been observed in the Great Lakes, tributaries of Lake Erie, and European rivers. The objective of this study was firstly, to document whether juvenile round gobies are utilizing drift as a means of range expansion, secondly, to describe the influence of season and time of day on the density of drifting round goby juveniles, and thirdly, to describe the community of fish families drifting downstream with round gobies in the French Creek watershed. Drifting larval and juvenile fishes were collected by placing three drift nets across a stream transect twice a month from June to August 2021 in LeBoeuf Creek, a tributary of French Creek with an established round goby population. Drift nets were set an hour before sunset and sampled every hour for 5 hours. A total of 929 fishes from 6 families were captured in the drift nets, with the majority of drift occurring in June. Round gobies were the third most abundant family with 163 individuals captured drifting throughout all sampling dates, with peaks in abundance in early June and early August. The mean total length of drifting gobies was 7.8 mm, and total length was consistent from June to early August. At the end of August, only one larger round goby was captured. Round goby drift occurred almost exclusively after dusk, with a peak abundance in the first completely dark hour. Understanding the patterns of round goby larval drift is necessary to inform management strategies that limit the dispersal of round gobies in the French Creek watershed and beyond.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: More Valuable than You Think – Exploring My Relationship to Wildlife through Roadkill Art<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Every year, thousands of animals are struck and killed by automobiles in the United States. Some are picked up by the city and discarded in landfills, most are left to rot on the sides of roads. An incident where I witnessed a squirrel die after being run over caused me to think more deeply about my perception and relationship to these road-killed animals. I began to see them as a potential resource for fur and\/or food, and as fellow sentient beings with personhood that deserve respect. I describe and analyze my various personal experiences working with, killing, and consuming wildlife bodies, including harvesting a deer for the first time, and how these experiences have influenced and shaped my perspective on wildlife ethics and the utilization of animal bodies. I draw on multiple different artistic, philosophical, and\/or scholarly writings to support and situate my own ideas. In addition to the written portion of this project, I also constructed a decorative, functional bag made from the tanned hides of two road-killed racoons, along with a pair of road-killed raccoon jawbones earrings. The skinning and tanning process served to provide me with a better understanding of the responsibility I feel for these animals as well as offering a chance to personally atone for their killings. These pieces serve to honor the deaths of these creatures, while also celebrating their lives.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: <\/strong>Determining red eft (Notophthalmus viridescens) and red-backed salamander (Plethodon cinereus) populations in wooded areas of Robertson Athletic Complex, Allegheny College\u00a0<\/strong><\/em>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>The red spotted newt (Notophthalmus viridescens) is a small amphibian that can be found throughout the United States, especially on the Eastern coast. The newt is an important predator in the food chain for both aquatic and terrestrial habitats. It is known for its toxicity in regards to being consumed by other animals, this being the reason why it is a predator more than it is prey. The expectations of this field work was to see the differences in population density in the three transect locations, and to use that data to assess how similar environments around Allegheny campus can provide improved habitat to these species. Using methods such as observation and the flipping of moveable natural cover items such as small logs and rocks, there was an overall population summary. Along with this there were site demographics taken such as temperature, soil moisture, leaf litter, and any visible stressor. Due to the timing of the data collection the only species found was the red-backed salamander (Plethodon cinereus). The salamander differs from the newt as it is smaller in size and it lives in terrestrial habitat only. The red-backed salamander is similar enough to the red-spotted newt that the objectives of this research are still applicable.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Mind the Gap: A methods comparison in quantifying forest canopy gaps<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> As a major component of uneven-age forest management, forest canopy gaps promote continuous regeneration either through manual selective harvest interventions, or naturally through dead fallen trees. By quantifying the spatial properties of these gaps, forest managers can monitor gap change over time, predict future tree species composition, and model natural or human-induced disturbances to one or more tree species. While determining these gap properties can be conducted using field measurements, this is not always possible, practical, or even accurate. This research considers the use of a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) approach to analyzing satellite imagery with an Image Texture-Based Analysis (ITBA) in order to understand if this method of delineating canopy gaps can be used as an alternative to ground surveys, and to explain whether the resulting number of gaps can be used to generalize the gap biodiversity levels to the overall forest landscape. By creating a geoprocessing model, this method can be applied to other forests of a similar size to delineate and obtain spatial information of their canopy gaps for a variety of forest management purposes. The ITBA analysis identified 322 gaps within the study region, with the average gap size being 94.9 ft2. Ten gaps were ground surveyed and were compared with the same gaps measured using the ITBA. While the results show that an ITBA and ground surveys do not have a statistically significant correlation in determining the area (in square feet) of the gaps, these two methods have their own strengths and weaknesses depending on the purpose of collecting canopy gap data.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Suitability Analysis for Honey Bee (Apis mellifera) Hive Sites on Ernst Conservation Seeds Property, Northwestern Pennsylvania and Northeastern Ohio<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> Honey bees (Apis mellifera) are critically important for the ecosystem and economy. They play a part in every aspect of the ecosystem, interconnecting ecosystems and supporting the growth of plants from trees to flowers. However, these bees are in decline due to a variety of causes including human impacts, disease, and climate change. Declines significantly impact the stability of ecosystems, especially wild plant diversity, as well as altering crop production, food security and human welfare. Apiculture, also known as beekeeping, is the science of collecting, caring for, and maintaining honeybee colonies to pollinate crops and provide honey. The decision for where to place beehives has to be concise and thorough to account for physical, environmental, cultural, or economic factors that would be important to provide the best living conditions for the bees and the greatest impact to neighboring croplands. This study used a GIS-based Multi-Criteria Evaluation approach, specifically fuzzy logic, to determine optimal locations for beehives in Northwestern Pennsylvania and Northeastern Ohio, to provide the most efficient coverage for Ernst Conservation Seeds crops. The study region selected was a 6 km buffer around Ernst crop fields. Criteria most fit for beehive locations was identified, proposed, and overlaid to produce a final suitability map. The results show that 1.9% of the study region was in the highest suitability class, equivalent to 56.5 km2. The final suitability map was given to Ernst Conservation Seeds, Vorisek\u2019s Backyard Bee Farm LLC, and local beekeepers to be used as a decision making tool for selecting profitable and suitable areas. The prompt and thorough identification of beehive sites is strategic, since it maximizes productivity and lowers the risks of colony losses.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Analyzing the Portrayal of Sharks in Cartoons<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Shark populations are declining due to overfishing and habitat loss. A negative perception depicted through movies and television shows has caused a lack of conservation efforts for sharks. Within cinema, sharks have been painted to be killing machines. An accurate portrayal of sharks, whether behavioral or biologically, is rarely shown in movies or tv shows, so audiences are forced to only perceive a negative idea of sharks. Cartoons are another area where sharks can be depicted inaccurately and lead people to believe in false narratives. In this study, I examine tone, character development, shot design, and body accuracy in 15 movies and television shows. To represent the results of this study, I created a short film designed for ages from 7-9. The film depicted ways to recognize inaccuracies of shark characters in cartoons. The objective of the film is to explain the importance of why sharks are essential to the ocean\u2019s ecosystem and how cartoons have hurt their image. The film\u2019s storyline is designed around the results of the study, while based on how to display the data to be receptive for children. The negative perception of sharks created in the media has in turn affected the overall conservation and protection of shark species.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Qualitative Analysis of Commenter Attitudes in a Tik Tok Featuring Human and Captive Tiger Interaction<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> Tigers (Panthera tigris) are keystone species in their natural habitat, and are important for herbivore population control. Unfortunately, tiger numbers are dwindling, in part due to the pet trade in the United States. Today there are more tigers in captivity in the U.S. alone than in the wild. This paper examines attitudes of people towards captive tigers interacting with humans by analyzing comments left on one Tik Tok video from Kody Antle, who runs a popular account associated with Myrtle Beach Safari, specifically to see if there is a need for more education on why owning tigers is bad for the conservation of the species. Themes were generated based on the content of the comments and then comments were sorted. The comments in the video were found to fit into 22 categories, which were then broken down into three categories of positive attitudes of humans interacting with tigers, negative attitudes of humans interacting with tigers, and neutral attitudes of humans interacting with tigers. By far the largest group were the neutral attitudes, followed by positive attitudes, and then negative attitudes far behind both of the other categories.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Investigating the Feasibility of Recycled Thermoplastic use for Luminescent Solar Concentrator Waveguides<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science & Physics
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> The challenges facing widespread renewable energy adoption are many, but one major hurdle is land-use. We have many needs that compete for the same land areas, chief among them being agriculture. Luminescent solar concentrators can convert a portion of incoming sunlight into electrical energy, while letting certain wavelengths important to photosynthesis pass through. This gives them the potential to be placed over agricultural land without disrupting food production. These devices are frequently manufactured using polymer materials as waveguides to concentrate light. The objective of this study is to investigate the possibility of using recycled polymers in waveguide construction to reduce the environmental impact of their manufacture and divert plastic waste from entering the environment. In this study, recycled polypropylene (PP) samples were made and their optical properties were compared to unrecycled PP samples as well as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). PDMS had the greatest level of optical transmission, followed by the stock PP samples, and then the recycled PP which exhibited an overall average transmissivity of 30% in the range 350-800 nm. Tests were conducted to see if different temperature heat sinks used to rapidly cool molten polymer would have any effect on the polymer\u2019s optical properties. The melting tests showed some dependence of beam quality on the temperature of the heat sink with which samples were cooled. These results were inconclusive; however, it seems PP may have the potential to be a waveguide material given further development of an appropriate recycling process.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: The Smarter the Angler, the Greener the Angler<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Economics & Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> In recent decades, plastic pollution has been one that many people are looking to decrease their own impact towards. With the growing awareness of environmental issues at both the consumer and producer level, companies have started producing more sustainable products using biodegradable plastics. Studies have shown that consumers, when more knowledgeable about the environmental sustainability of products, are more likely to purchase and pay more for such products. The recreational fishing industry contributes to this is issue, often through lost gear such as soft plastic lures (SPLs). Some of the best conservation efforts towards fisheries are those directly involving anglers in terms of becoming more knowledgeable of their own impacts on the environment. This study explores whether the current trend of paying more for environmentally friendly products holds true in a niche market of anglers. By providing the anglers with information in a survey, I find support of a strong effect of knowledge on the green purchasing habits of anglers. Statistical analysis lead to robust findings that suggest significant variables such as income has decreased effects with the presence of unknown variables. However, factors such as income may not have as large of an impact as other social factors may have on their decisions.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Agroforestry in temperate climate commercial agriculture: Insights from New York, Pennsylvania, and Maryland<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> Industrially-managed annual monocultures are the primary agricultural system used to grow most crops in developed countries. These systems necessitate destruction of natural ecological complexity for their management and are one of the largest contributors to the environmental problems facing society in the twenty-first century, including climate change, biodiversity and habitat loss, water pollution, topsoil loss and desertification, all of which threaten our ability to maintain the vitality of rural communities and feed ourselves in the future. Agroforestry is a promising set of practices that involves integrating trees into agricultural systems to optimize beneficial biophysical interactions, and it has a wide range of environmental and economic benefits. Agroforestry systems (AFS) have a rich history of use by indigenous people globally, including in temperate climate regions, and examples exist at commercial scales in tropical areas. However, due to the lack of knowledge about designing economically-viable AFS in temperate climates, there is a need for research in temperate contexts. This study aims to address that gap through qualitative interviews with farmers in New York, Pennsylvania and Maryland already utilizing AFS on their farms, in which farmers were asked questions about the design of their AFS, the benefits and challenges they have seen from using agroforestry, how they were exposed to agroforestry, their motivations, and any knowledge gaps they have. Perceived benefits include provisional and well-being benefits, improvements in water management, soil health, and livestock and crop well-being, increased presence of wildlife, improved ecological services, reduced need for purchased inputs and labor, improved product quality, and high yields. Perceived challenges include early setbacks and design failures, startup costs, establishment labor requirements, delayed yields, management complexity, difficulty mechanizing, and problems processing agroforestry crops. Labor was identified as a key variable in the economic viability of AFS, and farmers noted the need for grant funding, AFS examples, business planning and technical assistance. Many of the challenges farmers face can be overcome through research and development into AFS designs that minimize early costs, ensure early yields and maximize labor productivity, as well as the development of regional cooperative processing and marketing hubs for agroforestry crops.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: You look sew good: The feasibility of upcycling as an alternative to textile waste<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>With consumers being primed to search retail aisles for new trends changing, fast fashion has led to the fashion industry becoming recognized as the second largest polluter to the environment, next to the oil industry. With people using clothing as a mode of expression, it is easy for them to fall victim to fast fashion through perceived obsolescence. To help combat fast fashion, there needs to be a shift to slow fashion. Slow fashion puts quality and durability over mass production and low cost. Slow fashion can come in the form of an upcycled product, re-using textiles that are originally headed towards a landfill, giving them a second life. To raise awareness of slow fashion, I collaborated with 3 Allegheny students to create upcycled garments. Using the materials brought in by each participant, a sweater lined shirt, 2 piece tracksuit, and swim trunks were constructed. After the projects were complete, I began to look at what other upcycling businesses do to help mitigate textile waste. After analyzing different approaches taken by upcycling companies along with my own experiences, I have come to the conclusion that the most viable option for upcycled clothing to come into the mainstream is via mending workshops, where the consumers are responsible for repairing their own clothes. The low-cost repair and emotional satisfaction consumers would get out of mending one\u2019s own clothing would allow for it to have a longer lifespan through repair and attachment.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: The Trail Structure of Robertson Athletic Complex, Allegheny College<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>While essential to environmental research, education, and recreation, trails can have various negative impacts on their surrounding ecosystems. Many organizations from the federal level down to the private level conduct countless trail renovation projects every year to limit the diversion of sheet flow, erosion, destruction of vegetation, and displacement of wildlife associated with trail presence. Through GIS and GPS based land surveys of Robertson Athletic Complex, digital maps of the existing trail systems were created for the first time along with maps of relevant landscape features. Additionally, comparisons of trail building manuals were conducted to find the most sustainable trail design techniques utilized today. Two distinct trail systems were found which together totaled around 3.64 miles. The relevant landscape features mapped were slope, streams, land cover, and soil zones. The trail manual comparison resulted in tables of various trail design techniques and the pros and cons of implementing each one. The maps and tables were then combined to suggest which techniques should be implemented at given locations across the two trail systems to improve sustainability and traversability. With the completion of this project, the first step has been taken toward redesigning and revitalizing this trail system in a way that benefits the environment and the Allegheny community as a whole.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Analysis of Crayfish Populations Above and Below Woodcock Dam in Crawford County, PA<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Economics & Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> Not much is known about crayfish populations in Northwestern Pennsylvania, so a study investigating their populations at Woodcock Creek was conducted. During October and November 2021, four sites were surveyed, two located above the dam, and two below to measure crayfish size and sex. Along with this, environmental factors such as pH, dissolved oxygen, alkalinity, and turbidity were gathered. Results showed only one significantly different variable between the two sites, being alkalinity (p = 0.01). Thirty-two crayfish were caught above the dam, with the dominant species being the Common Appalachian Crayfish (Cambarus bartonii). Below the dam, only one crayfish was caught, however, various freshwater fishes. Due to lack of crayfish numbers from below the dam site, many comparisons could not be made between upstream and downstream. However, the lack of crayfish in downstream sites points to a selective pressure existing in the downstream site that is not as prominent above the dam. This data collected could provide insight into further population management of crayfish at Woodcock Dam.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: How does BTS promote the United Nations\u2019 Sustainable Development Goals?<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> The United Nations\u2019 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a call to action for countries to participate in a global partnership to end deprivations in society while improving health, education, reducing inequality, and spurring economic growth. The goals do all this alongside addressing climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests. There is potential for environmentally-conscious music to be a driving force for environmental issues. BTS is a Korean boy band who are using music to discuss issues described by the SDGs. In this study, an analysis of 135 of BTS songs was conducted. The songs analyzed were released over the time span of 2013-2020. Among these, 36 songs were found to have referred to at least one SDG. The most mentioned SDGs were \u201cNo Poverty\u201d, \u201cDecent Work and Economic Growth\u201d, and \u201cReducing Inequality\u201d. The SDGs that were not found in the analysis were \u201cIndustry, Innovation, and Infrastructure\u201d and \u201cPartnership for the Goals\u201d. It was also observed that there was a correlation between which SDGs are discussed during what year. They tend to release SDG focused songs during years without a full studio album release. There are songs from BTS that explicitly mention SDGs, and in other songs, it can be vague whether the band intended to reference SDGs. BTS\u2019 music can be influential and help stimulate curiosity about environmental action through their lyrics, and they show the potential of musical artists to provide a way for their audiences to think more in depth about environmentalism, climate change, and social change.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Winter Diet Analysis of the North American River Otter (Lontra canadensis) in Northwestern Pennsylvania<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>This study examined the variation in diet by North American river otters (Lontra canadensis) in northwestern Pennsylvania in December 2021. Thirteen scat samples were collected and analyzed from a known latrine (areas where river otters deposit scats and leave scent) in the Erie National Wildlife Refuge. River otters are opportunistic foragers\/hunters, so their diet often includes avian, mammalian, and reptilian prey, though they primarily prey on fish. The diet analysis was performed through the collection of individual scats, processing them, and then analysis, which consists of separating and examining any scales, otoliths, and other prey remnants present in the scat samples. This study concluded that sunfish (Centrarchidae) and common crayfish (Cambarus bartonii) were the primary prey sources for otters in the winter, with a frequency of occurrence of 100% and 23.1%, respectively.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Coltan As Kryptonite<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong>Columbite-tantalite, or coltan, is a metallic ore and conflict mineral mined in various parts of the world. Coltan is used in almost all electronics for the creation of heat capacitors and due to the increased demand for technology, the demand for coltan also increases. Mining for coltan, especially in low-income countries, causes detrimental effects to surrounding communities and artisanal miners themselves. The increased control of armed militia groups running illegal mining operations contributes to sexual and gender-based violence and the abuse of human rights. Lack of regulation in mining operations exposes communities to harmful chemicals that have a negative effect on public health. Deforestation and the clearing of brush for the creation of new mines creates a devastating impact on the land and results in the endangerment of species. However, coltan also leaves an impact beyond the mining stages. Improper disposal of electronics leads to the deposition in landfills which causes chemicals to leach into the earth surface and contaminate local groundwater resources. People are drinking contaminated water and breathing polluted air, all at the expense of new technology. This research outlines various ways in which the processes of coltan production can be improved and how new policies can be implemented to ensure justice for the communities affected by this issue. This information can be used by both government officials in re-writing policy, as well as the consumer to demand more from the companies that produce our products.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Designing a Residential PV Installation for a Local Family<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> A transition to a sustainable energy system that derives power from renewable sources, such as solar, is necessary to mitigate the extensive impacts of climate change. Global solar potential is immense, and with the appropriate infrastructure, solar can produce enough power to support the energy needs of the United States. The objective of this research was to design a PV array and draft an educational proposal for Amara Geffen and Jonathan Miller, a family in Meadville, that would reflect the energy, economic, and policy components that motivate families to install solar panels on their property. The proposal was developed using OpenSolar 2.0, a free solar design software that students may use to explore a wide spectrum of PV installations. The results indicated that a 20 panel array, designed with LG 370 W solar panels and Enphase IQ7+ microinverters, will produce 7,551 kWh of energy annually. Over the 25 year system lifespan, the array will generate a net gain of $21,607.75. Additionally, the cumulative energy production of the array will offset 123,175.69 lbs of carbon dioxide emissions, as well as lesser amounts of sulfur dioxide and nitrous oxide. The system\u2019s financial projections were subjected to three scenarios predicated upon a policy analysis of federal and state energy incentives, which indicated that the greatest increase in the net gain would be a result of greater support of Pennsylvania\u2019s alternative energy credit market.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Redesigning the Waste Receptacles Around the Mullen Arena<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> In addition to being the first liberal arts college in Pennsylvania to reach carbon neutrality in 2020, Allegheny College has one of the most prestigious environmental science programs in the United States (Walker, 2019). Since claiming carbon neutrality, Allegheny College has continued to make cost-effective environmental decisions in order to continue to improve its own carbon footprint. In order to reduce an institution\u2019s ecological footprint, variables like the overall consumption rate must be considered while also decreasing the total quantity of the waste that gets improperly disposed of by the community population. While reduction of the overall consumption rate of the institution will take significant time and energy, the process would benefit from a redesign of the campus waste receptacles. Redesigning waste receptacles help to reduce the amount of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) that gets improperly discarded into the recycling container instead of the trash container. It is important to note that trash contaminates can render a whole bin of recycling worthless; especially if the contaminate is a liquid such as water or soda. This study analyzes what can and cannot be recycled at Allegheny College, has been informed by techniques used by peer institutions, and uses graphics that are both eye-catching and informative about the recycling parameters at Allegheny College. Through factors like specific language, contrasting colors, and polygonal text, the new designs will help improve proper waste disposal throughout the Mullen Arena. These designs can then be updated periodically as concessions offered in the Mullen Arena change overtime.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Queering Conservation: How the LGBTQ+ Community Can Enhance Wildlife Conservation<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> One of the largest environmental problems today is massive species loss and declining biodiversity. Another is the continued oppression of LGBTQ+ people. Despite more progressive equality laws being passed and people becoming more accepting, LGBTQ+ people still face oppression and inequality. Additionally, queer people are more likely than cisgender heterosexual people to be impacted by species loss. Even though these issues seem unrelated, there are strong connections between them. Because of their unique lived experiences and impacts of climate change, LGBTQ+ people have the ability to enhance and benefit wildlife conservation. LGBTQ+ people have the ability to think in non-heteronormative ways and lead conservation efforts unlike others by bringing a queer approach that is creative and challenges binary thinking. This project investigates how LGBTQ+ people are connected to the environment and how the queer community can uniquely contribute to wildlife conservation. To learn more about LGBTQ+ people in conservation, the author interviewed LGBTQ+ conservationists to learn about their experiences in the field. This project contextualizes this qualitative research on LGBTQ+ conservation leadership through critical analysis informed by queer ecology and queer studies to examine how LGBTQ+ leaders can enhance wildlife conservation. By critically analyzing theories around LGBTQ+ liberation and the current status of wildlife conservation, combined with stories from current conservation and environmental studies professionals, this thesis argues that progress can be made towards equality among people while decreasing biodiversity loss.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: The Value of Community Gardens<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> Industrial agriculture is one of the main causes of climate change and detrimentally affects biodiversity, water quality, soil health, and human health. It relies on intensively growing or raising vast amounts of crops and livestock, thus allowing the world to produce more food than ever before. Despite this, gaining access to fresh fruits and vegetables is still an issue for many people around the world. To help combat these problems and strengthen social connections in communities, community gardens are created. This research investigates the stories of four community gardens founded in Meadville, Pennsylvania, and their value in the community. This study was accomplished by visiting each garden and conducting interviews with the respective organizers and members. Interviews with the former mayor and current mayor of Meadville to understand their perceptions of the gardens were also conducted. The information gathered from these conversations was then organized and finally narrated through a long-form journal article. The results of these interviews suggest that Meadville\u2019s community gardens have been important gathering places in their respective neighborhoods and contribute to providing fresh produce as well as a social activity for gardeners and residents of all ages. However, these gardens have struggled during the COVID-19 pandemic and lack robust funding and volunteers overall. Advertising, city-wide support, and a network of volunteers may help Meadville\u2019s community gardens strengthen social connections and begin to remediate food insecurity.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Terrestrial Species Richness within Select French Creek Valley Conservancy Properties<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> The purpose of this study is to create a baseline report of species richness and diversity on select French Creek Valley Conservancy (FCVC) Properties. There are 26 properties listed as being protected by the FCVC, however there is no underlying or foundational information about the diversity of the terrestrial species that inhabit these properties or the abundance of these species. The proposed research will extensively study 6 of these properties within Crawford County using a rotating cycle of camera trapping to gather data of the species richness from October 2021 to March 2022. Gathering and compiling this information will allow for a basic understanding of the terrestrial diversity of these regions and allow for effective future managing and continued conservation efforts within the conservancy properties and the entire watershed ecosystem. Standardizing the way these areas are researched will allow for more accurate studies in the future and appropriate monitoring of different species as well as a justification for any mitigation measures that may need to be taken in years to come. A total of 12 different species were detected over 97 trap days with the most species detected and highest diversity in the fall data set for Smock Riverwalk.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Women in Streams, a Short Documentary<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>This documentary explores aquatic science work from the experiential perspective of four Allegheny College students who are women. It shows the audience an intimate understanding of what these women do in their work, both practically and principally, as well as how the subjects experience and perceive their own work. This film utilizes candid footage, observational film techniques, and an organic approach to filming so that the audience can view the subjects as they genuinely and realistically behave. The themes that this documentary rests upon include passion for stream science, navigating a scientific field as a woman, pursuit of a passion, female mentorship, etc. Some specific topics include the work they do for either their campus job or their senior project, how they conduct that work exactly, and the background they have in this field. This is a documentary about the practical and introspective experiences of four women within their work conducting aquatic science. The central idea of the film is to explore their work and, through that, delve into how they perceive their work and themselves in doing what they do. The target audience for this documentary is high school students, specifically girls, but this is by no means a strict rule. The goal outcome of this documentary is to leave the audience with an understanding of the subjects both as scientists and as people, and an understanding of the work and research they conduct. The audience should understand why the subjects and the research with which they are involved are important.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Using What You Have To Make What You Don’t<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> The purpose of this project was to examine how consumerism and overconsumption have shaped how we see ourselves and our relationship to the things we buy, through the act of creating environmental art. Materials were gathered from nature, processed manually, and used to make functional ceramic works of art. A local deposit of wild clay was found, harvested, and used to create a dining set of two plates and two mugs. Locally sourced wood ash was used alongside the clay to make a glaze. A facet of this project was to illustrate what it means to be cognizant of the effort required to turn natural resources into useful and beautiful things, and how putting in that effort changes the relationship between the maker and what is made.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Beginning is the Ultimate Betrayal- Exploring Mental Health Through Climate Overwhelm<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Living in an increasingly unstable environment is a reality for some, a future for all. In the face of climate change, there are more unexpected aspects of everyday life to adapt to. This instability has a notable effect on the psyche, manifested in the litany of health disorders that it causes. This project uses a creative non-fiction format to depict a reality where environmental instability has become the only reliable aspect of young adulthood. Put into conversation with personal accounts of a mental health awakening, this work questions what it means to experience life as a growing environmentalist. Through use of format and language, this thesis evokes a strong sense of emotion and gives life to overwhelm in an interpretive and flexible way. Using anecdotal work alongside representations of concrete social and climate events centers the human experience, and thus challenges the motives of research-based literature that dominates the climate writing landscape.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Brook Trout Habitat Connectivity Analysis in the Allegheny River Watershed<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> Brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) are the only salmonid species native to Northwest Pennsylvania and are an important game species for anglers. They have been on the decline in the region since the 19th century due to habitat loss and fragmentation. Much of this degradation is due to deforestation and stocking of nonnative brown trout (Salmo trutta). A lesser studied source of habitat fragmentation is the creation of barriers in the form of culverted stream-roads intersections. This study aimed to gain a better understanding of brook trout habitat connectivity in 6 subwatersheds of the Upper Allegheny River Basin. Culverts were assessed and ranked based on their potential to prevent movement of brook trout upstream using a decision tree and 5 criteria: presence of culvert obstruction\/physical barrier, substrate, water depth in culvert outlet, outlet drop, and velocity. Habitat suitability of stream reaches was inferred from riparian land cover. The most frequent culvert criteria violations were lack of substrate within the culvert and insufficient outlet water depth. Twenty-five percent of surveyed culverts in the study region were classified as non-barriers and seventy-five percent were partial or complete barriers to upstream movement of brook trout. This left 43.7% of highly suitable habitat completely accessible from downstream and 38.7% inaccessible from downstream. Larger watersheds without barriers in the main stem had higher levels of connectivity than smaller watersheds with barriers in the main stem. These results can be used to more efficiently identify where brook trout are present as well as to make management recommendations to preserve brook trout in the western edge of their native habitat.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: What\u2019s brewing in Costa Rica? An Examination of the Sustainability of Organic Coffee Certification in Costa Rica<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science & Spanish
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> Coffee is consumed and traded on a major global level with approximately 2.25 billion cups of coffee consumed globally and world coffee exports amounting to 10.86 million bags in January 2022, and it is grown in some of the most biologically diverse areas of our planet, with Costa Rica having 6% of the planet’s biodiversity. Coffee certifications were implemented to support practices that address the social and environmental issues of agriculture while creating a specialty market for coffee. An analytic literature review was completed by reviewing a variety of sources from peer-reviewed journals to government documents and online sources such as newspaper and blog posts in both English and Spanish. Based on the findings it can be concluded that while there are some differences in the views of the certification between the two cultures, it seems to provide substantial benefits for the environment and the equity of people, thus meeting two of the three pillars of sustainability. Organic certification does not meet the requirements of the economic pillar due to its high costs and inconsistent price premiums. The language analysis of the Spanish used to discuss the certification showed the nuances of organic certification and the thoughts of Costa Ricans in regards to the certification. The agricultural practices of organic certification are not only beneficial, but a part of Costa Rican culture. However, the codification of the certification seems to recreate a false image of perfection. Based on the analysis, organic coffee certification in Costa Rica is not currently sustainable based on the criteria outlined within the thesis.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: The World Beyond The Wall: Writing Climate Fiction to Inspire Climate Action<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> In the face of an urgent climate crisis, misinformation and the confusing nature of climate science have made it difficult to offer meaningful environmental messages to the general American public, thus making it easy for climate deniers to ignore the truth of climate change. In meeting this challenge, I seek to use fiction to move people of all ages and scientific knowledge towards acceptance of the crisis. To do so, I have developed a speculative future for our current world, including scientific models such as Half-Earth and current social issues such as ecofascism to root my novel into familiar and realistic territories. With a plot designed to hook the reader early on, and a writing style that can be understood by all ages, my novel “The Sacrificial Generations” is intended to inspire all who read it to reimagine the world around them as something to be cherished, and to appreciate nature and all it does for us in the face of terrible consequences should we continue with the business-as-usual lifestyle our country currently leads.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Management plan for control of Rosa multiflora inhabiting Cussewago Island property of FCVC<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> Management of invasive plant species is instrumental in preserving the health and well-being of ecosystems and the environment. This research assesses the extent of invasion of invasive plant species Rosa multiflora and utilizes this collected data to create a management plan best suited for the French Creek Valley Conservancy. The Cussewago Island property is an integral section of riparian buffer for French Creek and all downstream towns that draw their drinking water from the creek. The increased presence of these invasive plant species is decreasing biodiversity, increasing disease presence, and reducing of native flora and fauna. I mapped out the locations of 150 singular plants, and plot size and locations of 89 thickets of the alien species, equalling roughly six total acres covered in multiflora rose. Overall costs of treatment was found using the following methods; herbicides as Cimarron (metsulfuron), Roundup Pro (glyphosate), Crossbow (triclopyr), and Pathfinder II and using none herbicide method of goats. The herbicide treatment cost anywhere from $95.57 to $972.60, whereas the goats cost $14,324.06 to treat the entire property of invasion utilizing a singular method. To do a combination of herbicides and goats cost a range of $5,495.63 to $6,039.81. The method best suited for the property was found to be utilizing goats within 300 feet of French Creek and applying herbicide as Roundup Pro to remaining interior invasion. The eradication of this invasive plant species will increase native biodiversity and provide a healthy riparian zone for this expanse of French Creek.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Novum Aevum: Depicting the Climate Crisis Through Narrative Musical<\/em> Compositions<\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science & Music
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Anthropogenic climate change disproportionately affects lower-income communities and developing nations, all while climate deniers fight with policymakers on proposals to slow the climate crisis. The environmental humanities communicates environmental problems, and in some cases provides environmental solutions. The objective of this thesis is the development of one of those mediums, in which the age of anthropogenic climate change is depicted through a six-movement music composition for concert band: Novum Aevum. Utilizing different musical devices such as dissonance, meter, and instrumentation, this work paints a picture of the modern-day climate crisis by showing the rise (and predicted fall) of society versus the natural world. Following a specific Storyline, the music travels the path of time and points out important events and shifts in the changing climate while also predicting what will happen should inaction prevail. The music written seeks to convey the severity of the climate crisis to the listeners of all ages. Additionally, the music was written to elicit a variety of emotional responses from the listener, including happiness, anxiety, concern, and hope.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: In Pursuit of Perfection<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> English & Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>N\/A.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Nutrition as a Prevention Method to Elevated Blood Lead Levels in Children between 0-71 months old in Rural Pennsylvania<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract:<\/strong> Despite most U.S. household lead exposures being banned within the last half century, lead continues to be a major health problem specifically for young children. Blood lead levels as low as 5 ug\/dL can cause intellectual and behavioral disorders in young children, both severe and irreversible (Chiodo et al., 2007). Since the early 20th century science has identified that quality nutrition is a large factor in decreasing lead poisoning risk, specifically identifying the importance of recommended daily intake of the vitamin calcium after studies with rats found that lead mimics calcium flow in the channels of cells (Levander, 1979). Feeding children quality diets that meet the recommended daily values of calcium and caloric intake is difficult for families that live in food deserts or food apartheids, where poverty, distant supermarkets, and low- vehicle access leave many people food insecure. This project aims to understand the relationship between indicators of poor nutrition and low access to healthy foods with elevated blood lead levels in rural Pennsylvania counties among children aged 0-71 months. A t-test was used to statistically analyze elevated blood levels ranging from 5-9.9 ug\/dL as well as greater than or equal to 10 ug\/dL in conjunction with a myriad of variables that were used to identify food insecurity in rural Pennsylvania counties. Results showed that rural Pennsylvania counties that have increased food insecurity are more at risk for having elevated blood lead levels in their population aged 0-71 months. This project also aims to contribute to the research of lead poisoning in rural counties, because lead poisoning has been historically stigmatized as exclusively an urban problem.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Trashing the Trash: A Study of Recycling Contamination at Allegheny College<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nAbstract:<\/strong><\/p>\n

\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
As levels of human-created carbon dioxide in the atmosphere continue to increase, it is becoming more and more important to find ways to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide emitted each year. Recycling materials into new products rather than gathering and processing new materials is one way to reduce carbon emissions and energy use. The growing popularity of single-stream recycling programs has increased overall recycling rates, but has also increased levels of recycling contamination, causing a quarter of all recyclable materials to be sent to landfills. This study focuses on the amount of recycling contamination present at Allegheny College in Meadville, Pennsylvania. Over five days, items placed in the recycling were collected from three buildings on campus before being counted and sorted into four categories. Percent contamination was calculated for three different subsections of the data: contamination per day, contamination per building, and overall rate of contamination. The overall percent contamination for Allegheny College was found to be 29.56%. Since this study only surveyed three buildings, another iteration of the study that includes more buildings may provide a more accurate recycling contamination rate for the college.<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Rural Perceptions: Understanding the Causation of a Hindered Relationship between Rural Farmers in North East Ohio and the Environmental Protection Agency <\/em><\/strong>Date:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science & Political Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science & Sustainability
\nAbstract: <\/strong>This Senior Composition researches perceptions that dairy farmers in Northeastern Ohio have of the Environmental Protection Agency. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with the participation of five different individuals. The results of those interviews were coded and analyzed based on 6 themes presented through Thematic Analysis. The themes presented and the overall pattern of values and relationships. Individuals in the agricultural industry lack trust of individuals they do not know, and the trust to try and implement new technology and policy that is presented by these individuals. The research conducted shows an overall neutral and negative perception of the EPA by dairy farmers in North East Ohio. This can cause a lack of compliance and lack of willingness to change by the farmers as they do not trust or have a relationship with those that are working for the EPA. Developing relationships with each organization would allow for mutual understanding, trust, and empathy between the groups. This could allow for change and compliance to occur swiftly and regularly in order to achieve an agricultural operation that is both productive and more environmentally conscious.<\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

\n

Title: Exploring how genetic variations in round gobies, Neogobius melanostomus, compare to populations within their native ranges and contribute to their success in Pennsylvanian waters<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Biology & Environmental Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nAbstract:\u00a0<\/strong>Round gobies, Neogobius melanostomus, are an invasive fish species and are now present in all five Laurentian Great Lakes. In recent years, they have also been introduced into the Allegheny River basin, specifically French Creek. This is concerning as French Creek is home to a vast number of species and is known for being the most biodiverse stream in Pennsylvania. Since their introduction into French Creek occurred less than ten years ago, monitoring their expanding populations and genetic makeup is essential for providing information on how genetics could potentially increase their success as an invasive species. The topic of invasion biology in recent and established populations is relatively new to existing literature. The objective of this study was to determine how genetic, morphological, and behavioral differences may contribute to the overall success of invasive round gobies and to determine\/support any common themes in the available literature. This comprehensive project aims to further the understanding of how genetic diversity affects invasive species and compare the genetics of round gobies in invasive waterways to waterways within their native populations in Eurasia. Since the initial release of round gobies into the Great Lakes of North America had a large population size and a high amount of genetic variability, they were able to avoid any founder effects. Round gobies also were found to have certain CYP genes, transcription factors (AIRE, CD4, and CD8), and T cell receptors that help make them survive in varying conditions.<\/p>\n

\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
\n
<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n

Title: Taking a Moderate Approach to Sustainability Discourse: A Case Study in Framing Green Energy Policy in Illinois and Wisconsin<\/em><\/strong>
\nDate:<\/strong> Spring 2022
\nMajor(s):<\/strong> Environmental Science & Political Science
\nThesis Committee:<\/strong> Environmental Science
\nAbstract: <\/strong>Climate change remains a major cause of global concern among citizens and scientists alike. Though climate change is still a contentious and partisan issue, 61% of Americans believe that Congress should do more to address it. This study reviews press releases and media statements by Illinois and Wisconsin politicians and advocacy organizations to determine what rhetorical framing was being used to determine how best to bring other legislators on board. This study pays particular attention to Graham et al.\u2019s moral foundations (2009) as well as economic appeals. In the absence of substantial federal action, there has recently been action taken at the state level to support renewable energy, including the Illinois Climate and Equitable Jobs Act and Wisconsin Governor Tony Ever\u2019s Executive Order 38 which creates a goal of 100% carbon neutrality by 2050. There has been bipartisan support in Illinois and Wisconsin regarding renewable energy issues, as several Republicans supported Illinois’s Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, and Wisconsin Republicans introduced a bill in 2019 to expand solar leasing to residents which would aim to make solar more affordable. This content analysis study finds that both Democrats and Republicans in both states emphasize economic arguments, that Republicans use sustainability arguments differently than Democrats, and that Democrats are not using fairness\/reciprocity appeals. The results of this study suggest that future environmental policy should continue to prioritize economic appeals for bipartisan support.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Title: Road Salt Effects on Freshwater Ecosystems in the Northeastern United States Date: Spring 2022 Major(s): Environmental Science Thesis Committee: Environmental Science & Sustainability Abstract: This study investigates the effects of road salt applied to roads near a body of water on freshwater ecosystems, specifically in the headwater streams that feed into French Creek in […]<\/p>\n

Continue Reading “Abstracts Year: 2022”<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":623,"featured_media":0,"parent":292,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"class_list":["post-6004","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6004","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/623"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6004"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6004\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6044,"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/6004\/revisions\/6044"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/292"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6004"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":5852,"date":"2023-09-19T08:40:13","date_gmt":"2023-09-19T12:40:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/envsci\/senior-project\/"},"modified":"2023-09-19T08:40:13","modified_gmt":"2023-09-19T12:40:13","slug":"senior-project","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/senior-projects\/%20","title":{"rendered":"senior project"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":559,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":"","_links_to":" https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/senior-projects\/ ","_links_to_target":""},"class_list":["post-5852","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5852","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/559"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5852"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5852\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5852"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":5782,"date":"2023-02-09T14:36:43","date_gmt":"2023-02-09T19:36:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/envsci\/?page_id=5782"},"modified":"2026-09-22T13:22:52","modified_gmt":"2026-09-22T17:22:52","slug":"newsletters","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/sites.allegheny.edu\/environmental-science-sustainability\/newsletters\/","title":{"rendered":"Newsletters & Departmental Publications"},"content":{"rendered":"

Newsletters<\/h3>\n

The Environmental Science &\u00a0 Sustainability newsletter is written and published by a team of students with the goal of highlighting events and work happening within the department and on-campus.<\/p>\n