Water Quality

MSU WATER

Developing and implementing a comprehensive watershed management plan to protect the water that flows through its East Lansing campus. With an emphasis on integrating research, outreach and teaching programs, the initiative includes physical, chemical, biological and human assessments in order to identify the most pressing water-related issues and research opportunities. Multidisciplinary teams comprised of faculty staff and students have been formed to address each priority area in cooperation with external partners within the Red Cedar River Watershed.

Point/Nonpoint Source Pollution Trading

NutrientNet is an on-line market and information tool for improving water quality through nutrient trading. This website  allows farmers, industries and other interested parties to buy or sell nutrient credit such as phosphorus credit online. It also provides educational information about nutrient trading and science based nutrient credit estimation.

NPS - Pesticides

Nonpoint source pollution (NPS) resulting from pesticide application  in agricultural croplands is a continuing environmental concern. Our efforts on pesticide related NPS research include using pesticide screening tool and GIS technology map potential high risk areas. This may help farmers make informed decisions when pesticides are to be applied.

NPS - Nutrients

Nutrients including nitrogen and phosphorus are common  pollutants from nonpoint source. Utilization of chemical fertilizers and animal manures may lead to eutrophication and degrade water quality. 

NPS - Soil Erosion/Sediments

Large portion of NPS pollution comes from soil erosion and sediment delivery. Sediment delivered from water erosion causes substantial waterway damages and water quality degradation. Sediment delivery ratios were modeled to help  control sediments for sustainable natural resources development and environmental protection.