BACKGROUND
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
Selected publications
Coming soon
|
