I am currently working on and researching zebra mussel control and remediation measures. This research includes non-target species impacts. Apart from my work at USGS, I am currently pursuing a master's degree in biology at the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse. My thesis research is focused on modeling organic carbon burial in freshwater impoundments incorporating GIS driven data.
Research Interests
I am interested in researching dreissinid mussels and their impacts on the ecosystem, ultimately tying together my professional work at USGS with my thesis work in graduate school. Currently I am aiding in research into dreissinid mussel control primarily focused on understanding the relationship of physical parameters (e.g. temperature) and toxicity of different chemical compounds to zebra mussels.
Education and Certifications
Master of Science – Biology December 2018
Bachelor of Science - Geography (Cum Laude) May 2012
Science and Products
Assessment of Open Water Zequanox Applications for Controlling Dreissenid Mussels within an Inland Lake
Use of electrified fields to control dreissenid mussels
Temperature-dependent toxicity of molluscicides to zebra mussels
Science and Products
- Science
Assessment of Open Water Zequanox Applications for Controlling Dreissenid Mussels within an Inland Lake
Invasion of dreissenid mussels (zebra and quagga mussels, Dreissena polymorpha and D. rostriformis bugensis, respectively) into the Great Lakes and Mississippi River Basins has resulted in estimated economic impacts as high as $1 billion annually for maintenance and repair of biofouled water conveyance systems and other infrastructures (Pimentel et al. 2005).Use of electrified fields to control dreissenid mussels
Zebra and quagga mussels were first introduced into the Great Lakes in the 1980’s and they have since expanded to over 750 inland lakes in addition to the 5 Great Lakes (http://fl.biology.usgs.gov/Nonindigenous_Species/Zebra_mussel_distribution/zebra_mussel_distribution.html, accessed 8/5/2015). A 2009 study conducted by the Idaho Aquatic Nuisance Species Taskforce estimated the annual economic...Temperature-dependent toxicity of molluscicides to zebra mussels
Zebra mussels (Dreissenia polymorpha) are native to the Black, Caspian, and Aral Seas of eastern Europe (Gollasch and Leppäkoski 1999) and they were likely introduced into Lake Erie as veliger larvae in the summer or fall of 1985 (Hebert et al. 1989). Their high reproductive capacity and planktonic larval stage enable zebra mussels to rapidly disperse (Birnbaum 2011). Less than 10 years after... - Data
- Publications