Water Quality Monitoring

Research in water quality monitoring addresses the assessment and management of surface and groundwater resources. This area investigates the presence, fate, and transport of chemical, physical, and biological contaminants in aquatic environments. Studies employ a range of methods, including in-situ sensor deployment, laboratory analysis of water and sediment samples, and the development of predictive models. Specific research interests include the impact of agricultural and urban runoff, the effects of emerging contaminants like pharmaceuticals and microplastics, and the biological indicators of water health.

In Arkansas, water quality is a critical concern for agriculture, the state's largest economic sector, as well as for public health and the preservation of valuable natural resources like the Buffalo National River and the Ozark-Ouachita Highlands. Research in this area directly informs best management practices for nutrient application, wastewater treatment, and watershed protection, aiming to safeguard drinking water supplies, support healthy aquatic ecosystems, and maintain recreational opportunities across the state.

This research area benefits from strong interdisciplinary connections with hydrology, environmental science, remote sensing, and land use analysis. Engagement extends across institutions, fostering a comprehensive approach to understanding and improving water quality throughout Arkansas.