Capps Lab at UGA

Declining water quality and increasing human health risks associated with failing water infrastructure

Globally, failing water infrastructure has been linked to declining water quality and increased exposure to contaminants, and potentially harmful bacteria infections including, but not limited to Escherichia coli. To assess temporal and spatial changes in the chemical and bacterial composition of water associated with failing water infrastructure in tributaries of the Oconee River Watershed, members of the Capps Lab will conduct a field- and lab-based empirical study. Field activities will be conducted in Athens, GA in stream reaches that have been designated as priority research areas by either Watershed UGA (https://www.watershed.uga.edu/) and/or Athens-Clarke County to support local stream restoration efforts. In conjunction with the Principal Investigator and a UGA-based graduate student, the participating student will be trained to collect and analyze water quality samples to begin relating in-stream environmental conditions with water infrastructure. Results will be applied to future Watershed UGA projects and will be shared with county water officials. Applicants should have some previous experience conducting field research and an interest in learning techniques in analytical chemistry. Successful candidates will be able to work effectively individually and within a team environment.

Details and Timeline: http://reu.ecology.uga.edu/?page_id=1289

Application: http://reu.ecology.uga.edu/?page_id=11