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In addition to his research on water quality and quantity in the local Mill River Watershed, Professor Newton is conducting environmental research projects in the Adirondacks, Alaska, and New Hampshire.
In the Adirondack’s Professor Newton is investigating mercury cycling in wetlands, lakes and terrestrial systems. Within the past 10 years it has been found that many remote lakes have been found to contain fish with elevated levels of mercury. The mercury is presumed to be from increased atmospheric deposition due to mercury emissions from coal fired power plants and incinerators. This project looks at how mercury is transported and transformed within the watershed of Sunday Lake located in the western Adirondacks. Mercury occurs in various forms, the most toxic being methyl mercury. Methylation appears to occur as a byproduct of the action of sulfate reducing bacteria. Riparian wetland areas where upwelling groundwater nourishes this bacteria are being examined to determine the hydrochemical factors that ultimately control the concentration of mercury in fish. A computer model is being developed to simulate the movement of mercury through the watershed system. The model will be used to evaluate the effectiveness of mitigation strategies.
In New Hampshire, Prof. Newton is conducting research to identify recharge areas and sources of contamination of Lake Ossipee ’s aquifer. Local conservation groups will use the data to advocate for legislation protecting the primary recharge areas of the aquifer.
Prof. Newton’s research project in southeast Alaska is investigating the link between global climate change and the retreat of glaciers.
Courses
Introduction to Earth Processes and History
Geomorphology
Groundwater Geology: local contamination issues
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