Meghan Vissers
Role of groundwater-surface water interactions in delivering phosphorus to agriculture streams
Excess phosphorous has detrimental effects on waterways due to the subsequent algal growths, impairment of aquatic ecosystems, and contamination of drinking water sources. While surface water and overland pathways are generally considered the main pathway that delivers phosphorous to streams, increasing evidence suggests that phosphorous is mobile in groundwater. This mobility may be important in delivering phosphorous to streams in some areas. Moreover, current conservation practices intended to reduce overland phosphorous transfer may be increasing the phosphorous inputs to streams through the flow of groundwater. The objective of this project is to develop new knowledge required to assess and manage the contribution and ecological impact of groundwater in delivering phosphorous to agriculture streams.
Personal Background
Meghan graduated from Western University in 2019 with a bachelor's degree in Chemical and Biochemical Engineering and with a certificate in Engineering Leadership and Innovation. During her undergrad, she was introduced to research when she spent 3 month as a research assistant at the Zhejiang University of Technology in Hangzhou, China, where she assisted on a project studying the solubility of carbon dioxide in aqueous solutions. She also completed a 16 month professional internship as a Project Assistant at the Department of National Defence in Yellowknife, NWT, where she was introduced to the concepts of water and soil quality testing. Meghan is excited to be joining RESTORE, where she will be completing her master's degree under Dr. Clare Robinson.
Awards
- 14th Annual Capstone Design and Competition 1st Place Winner (2019)
- MITACS Globalink Research Award (2016)
- Dean's Honour List, Western University (2014-2015, 2016-2017, 2018-2019)
- Western Scholarship of Excellence (2014)
