Spotlight on Student Research and Outreach 2010 Graduate Student Abstracts

Contents Oral Presentations ...... 1 Outreach Posters ...... 5 Independent Research Posters ...... 6 Class Project Posters ...... 41

Oral Presentations

AN ECOLOGICAL TREATMENT SYSTEM FOR THE RE-USE OF BIO-DIGESTED FOOD WASTE

Lin H and Diemont S Departments of Environmental Resources and Forest Engineering, SUNY ESF See this oral presentation in 110 Moon at: 12-12:20 pm

Abstract: An Ecological Treatment System with vermifilters (VETS) was used to reuse bio-digested food waste. Bio-digested food waste had typically been treated with conventional aerated processes, but the capacity of ecological treatment systems to reuse food waste has never been studied. Experiments were conducted at three different inflow rates, with hydraulic retention time of 114.5d, 28.6d and 14.3d. Samples of influents and effluents from each treatment unit were tested for NH4-N, NO3-N, carbonaceous biochemical oxygen demands (CBOD5), and orthophosphate. During the entire study, all variables were significantly reduced except for NO3-N, which displayed large increase in the system. With the increase of inflow rate, NH4-N, NO3-N and orthophosphate concentration in effluent was also increased, but suspended solids and CBOD5 did not vary among different inflow strengths. Design graphs were developed to facilitate the future design process of ecological treatment systems. Vermifiltration was used as the first unit in the system, which showed high efficiency in NH4-N and CBOD5 reduction. Algae growing experiments were conducted, and VETS effluent showed significant support for Chlorella spp. culturing. Quick measureable variables such as oxidization-reduction potential (ORP) and pH were tested and compared to water quality variables, and ORP was recommended as a sensitive indicator for system treatment capacity.

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A RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS OF SUSPENDED SOLIDS DEPOSITION IN ONONDAGA LAKE, NY: 1980-2008

Hurteau CA1,2, Matthews DA1, and Effler SW1 1Upstate Freshwater Institute, Syracuse, New York, 2Graduate Program in Environmental Science, SUNY ESF See this oral presentation in 110 Moon at: 12:20 – 12:40 pm

Abstract: Long-term temporal patterns in the deposition of total (TSS), fixed (FSS), and volatile suspended solids (VSS) are documented for eutrophic Ca2+-rich Onondaga Lake, NY from 1980–2008 . Weekly collections were made from sediment traps deployed below the thermocline from mid-May to mid-September in the deepest area of the lake (~20 m). Downward fluxes of TSS (DFTSS), FSS (DFFSS), and VSS (DFVSS) decreased 42%, 38%, and 41%, respectively, following closure of a soda ash facility in 1986 that discharged ionic waste to the lake. Following a long period of relatively stable dry weight deposition, marked decreases were observed in recent years. DFTSS, DFFSS, and DFVSS decreased 47%, 52%, and 13%, respectively, from 2007–2008 . Sediment accumulation rates derived from dry weight deposition were estimated to decrease from 0.8 cm/yr in the pre-closure interval to 0.4 cm/yr in the post closure interval to 0.2 cm/yr in 2008. DFFSS accounted for 80% to 85% of DFTSS, and deposition of CaCO3 accounted for 75% to 80% of DFFSS. Observed trends in CaCO3 deposition remained consistent in 2007 and 2008, despite a shift in magnitude between the two years. Although a definitive cause for the observed decrease in deposition in 2008 has not been identified, likely drivers include variations in temperature, concentration of Ca2+, primary production (pH), and the availability of nucleation sites. Because in-lake processes accounted for 85% of DFTSS, changes in primary production and lake chemistry could have significant effects on the burial of contaminants and microbial metabolism in the sediments.

MEASURING CONSERVATION SUCCESS: RESULTS OF A 26-YEAR-LONG STUDY ON BOG TURTLES (GLYPTEMYS MUHLENBERGII) IN MASSACHUSETTS

Sirois AM1, Gibbs JP1, and Whitlock AL2 1Department of Environmental and Forest Biology, SUNY ESF, 2U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Hadley, MA See this oral presentation in 110 Moon at: 12:40-1 pm

Abstract: Significant resources are being invested into habitat restoration for the federally threatened bog turtle (Glyptemys muhlenbergii) throughout its range. This study evaluated changes in habitat use and demography in two bog turtle populations in western Massachusetts: one subject to habitat management for bog turtles (prescribed fires, invasive plant control and woody vegetation removal) and one not (subject to wildfire, flooding, and non-native plant invasion). Habitat use data at each site collected from radio-tagged turtles during 2008 and 2009 was compared to data gathered in 1995 to 1997 in terms of home range, greatest distance to hibernaculum, preferred habitat, and use of key habitat features. Mark-recapture data collected over 18 survey years (between 1984 and 2009) permitted measurement of survival rates, population size, densities, sex ratios, growth rates and condition indices. Model selection shows that site and habitat change are important predictors for probability of survival. Adult population has significantly declined at the unmanaged site. Growth rates and condition indices appear to be greater after habitat alterations at both sites. Linking habitat and demographic data to habitat treatments via a long-term study permits understanding how active habitat

Page 2 of 43 management or lack of management can affect survival prospects for endangered bog turtle populations.

BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES IMPLEMENTATION IN THE NEW YORK CITY WATERSHED: A FORMATIVE EVALUATION

VanBrakle JD and Germain, RH Department of Forest and Natural Resources Management, SUNY ESF See this oral presentation in 110 Moon at: 1-1:20 pm

Abstract: New York City’s water supply system supplies over 1.3 billion gallons of water to over 9 million people daily while operating under an Environmental Protection Agency filtration avoidance waiver. Ninety percent of this water comes from the Catskill/Delaware Watersheds, largely owned by private landowners holding small acreages. The Watershed Agricultural Council (WAC) assists these landowners in maintaining forest and water quality through forest management plans, cost sharing incentives, and promoting Best Management Practices (BMPs) through educational events. To evaluate the forest management planning program’s efficacy in promoting BMP implementation, field surveys of recently harvested properties, both with and without management plans, were conducted in the summer of 2009 within the Catskill/Delaware Watersheds in Delaware County, NY. Forty-nine properties were evaluated, 27 with management plans and 22 without plans. Properties were evaluated for BMP implementation by comparing post-harvest conditions to New York State BMP guidelines. A longitudinal component of the study compared BMP implementation in 2009 against a similar study from 2002. Properties with plans had significantly higher BMP scores compared to properties without plans. The differences were statistically significant for skid trails and water diversion devices, but not for landings. Overall BMP scores were higher in 2009 compared to 2002, again with significance for skid trails and water diversion devices. The results indicate that BMP outreach efforts by WAC and their partners have paid dividends on the ground. Nevertheless, wide ranging scores suggest that more work could be done to encourage BMP implementation on a broader scale.

WILDERNESS PERCEPTION MAPPING IN THE ADIRONDACK PARK, NY

Larkin A and Beier C Departments of Environmental and Forest Biology and Forest and Natural Resource Management, SUNY ESF See this oral presentation in 110 Moon at: 1:20-1:40 pm

Abstract: The 1987 Adirondack Park State Land Master Plan provides a legislative definition of “wilderness,” yet the concept of wilderness is further defined by each individual’s perception. Wilderness Perception Mapping (WPM) is a technique that elicits wilderness perceptions through a questionnaire survey, generates a statistical profile of respondents, and represents the perceptions of respondents spatially in a geographic information system (GIS). This technique was previously applied in the Region of Nelson, New Zealand and the San Juan National Forest, Colorado; both nationally protected and managed areas. The Adirondack Park represents a novel environment for the application of WPM within 6 million acres of mixed public and private lands that serve a variety of stakeholders. This research uses survey data to characterize stakeholder respondents into four classes along the

Page 3 of 43 wilderness purism scale. These four classes can be implemented in a GIS, generating maps of wilderness perceptions based on excluding undesirable features from a class’s perceived wilderness area. Surveys were collected from stakeholders (residents, seasonal residents, visitors) at four sites within the park (Old Forge, Lake Placid, Lake George, Newcomb) using waiting and roaming methods at recreational sites and town centers. Results from statistical and WPM analysis will be used to compare wilderness perceptions across stakeholder, demographic, and geographic variables. The final products will include WPMs of specific management units and the larger Adirondack Park to compare with units in the Park legislatively zoned as wilderness. WPM can be used to improve wilderness management and conservation efforts within the Park.

INVESTIGATING THE EFFECTS OF SITE AND SOIL ACIDITY ON SUGAR MAPLE CONDITION FOLLOWING DEFOLIATION

Pitel NE and Yanai RD Department of Forest and Natural Resources Management, SUNY ESF See this oral presentation in 110 Moon at: 1:40-2 pm

Abstract: Sugar maple (Acer saccharum Marsh), a keystone species of northern hardwood forests, is susceptible to decline especially on sites with low soil Ca and Mg. A common stressor of sugar maple is forest tent caterpillar (FTC; Malacosoma disstria Hübner), an indigenous defoliator. The recent outbreak of FTC (2002-2007) affected millions of acres of forest in the northeastern U.S. and Canada. This research assessed the condition of sugar maple trees in 47 new or previously monitored North American Maple Project (NAMP) stands in Massachusetts (2006, 2007), Vermont and New York (2007, 2008) following the collapse of the recent FTC outbreak. Objectives of this study were to predict recent sugar maple mortality within stands using average crown dieback from the previous year and to test whether stands on sites with low soil Ca and Mg had above-normal recent mortality and high crown dieback. Mortality was highest in stands with the most crown dieback the previous year (R2 = 0.62, p<0.001). Stands with above-average annual sugar maple mortality (> 2%) occurred on soils with low concentrations of Ca and Mg, although concentrations were higher than those determined by previous research in the Allegheny Plateau. Soil K was the soil variable best correlated with mortality (r = -0.39, p<0.03) and crown dieback (r = -0.41, p<0.03). Results suggest that sugar maple may be at risk of decline on a wider range of soils than previously defined. We also suggest that more attention be paid to K concentrations in soils when investigating sugar maple condition.

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Outreach Efforts

1. FOSTERING THE NEXT GENERATION OF SCIENTISTS

Buckley S, Landis C, Spiese J, Bowman K, Byrne E, Graves M, Gurdak D, Song P, Taylor D, Leopold DJ, Beal R, Spuches C, and Majanen T SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12:30-2 pm

Abstract: SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) project goals are to enhance high school student science learning and engagement and teacher and graduate student professional development. This project builds upon a well-established school-college partnership program, ESF in the High School. Through this dual enrollment program, high school students across New York receive college credit for The Global Environment, an ESF course that engages students in the scientific process while addressing a range of environmental and social issues. Our project enriches this program by partnering nine graduate Fellows, who form the Science Corps, with high school teachers at “home” schools in urban, rural and indigenous communities throughout central New York. At “home” schools Fellows serve as scientists in residence, facilitating learning experiences and, in return, learn to better communicate their own research. Fellows use their graduate research experience to mentor students as they develop independent research projects. High school students present their projects at the Environmental Summit, a science symposium held on the ESF campus and attended by high school students, teachers, graduate students and faculty. In addition, Fellows visit other participating high schools and lead inquiry- and research-based activities called “road shows.” Last year, Fellows mentored 146 high school student researchers, and engaged over 420 students through 38 “road show” presentations. Ultimately, SUNY-ESF’s GK12 project enables students to be scientifically literate, well- informed young adults who possess the skills required to meet society’s immediate and future challenges.

2. SCENARIOS: SIMPLE STEPS AND CHALLENGING PROCESS del Granado S1, Manno J1, Montefrio M1, Rodriquez B2, Heinzen B3, and Larkin A3 1Department of Environmental Studies, 2Department of Lanscape Architecture, 3Department of Environmental and Forest Biology, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-2 pm

Abstract: The recognition that decisions need to be made in spite of uncertainty has prompted the development of scenarios. Humans have recognized the limits of scientific knowledge, the uncertainty due to inherent determinisms of complex systems, and the uncertainty related to humans as observers and actors able to modify and influence their future through changes in present behavior. Scenarios are used to illustrate and communicate possible and plausible futures integrating quantitative and qualitative methods. A one week seminar was organized between students at SU and SUNY-ESF to learn about the development, application, and uses of scenarios through a case study. The potential uses for Bolivia’s natural gas and lithium resources to alleviate poverty and foster sustainable development was

Page 5 of 43 chosen as the simulation topic. The class learned by doing. Four scenarios were created and presented to in-role Bolivian government officials. Building meaningful and user-friendly scenarios requires skills of interdisciplinary systems analysis, creative and plausible narrative communication, cross-cultural collaboration and practical policy knowledge and experience. It is an intensely collaborative process that shows plausible ends and possible intervention points.

3. CHASING BUTTERFLIES AND CATCHING INTEREST: BUTTERFLY RESEARCH IN ASSAM, INDIA, AND ITS APPLICATION IN EDUCATION AND OUTREACH

Gurdak DJ1, Barua M2,3, Butterfly Northeast3 1SUNY ESF, 2Oxford University Centre for the Environment, Oxford, UK, 3Kaziranga, Assam, India Visit this student next to their poster from: not available

Abstract: Despite a high diversity of butterflies in Assam, India, conservation funding largely focuses on vertebrates, leaving invertebrate groups, such as butterflies, underrepresented. In collaboration with Butterfly Northeast, a local butterfly research and enthusiast group, this interdisciplinary effort aims to bridge two research components and is part of a long-term initiative by Butterfly Northeast to promote regional butterfly research and conservation through outreach and education. This effort was integrated into learning environments and outreach initiatives during project implementation and post- project activities in India and the US.

Independent Research Posters

4. PERSISTENCE OF A RARE ANCIENT CYCAD: EFFECTS OF ENVIRONMENT AND DEMOGRAPHY

Álvarez-Yépiz JC1, Dovçiak M1, and Búrquez A2 1SUNY ESF, 2Instituto de Ecología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Sonora, México Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-1 pm

Abstract: Conservation of rare species is frequently complicated by their narrow niches and poor competitive abilities which limit their distribution to a few small populations. We studied how population size and structure of an endemic cycad of northwestern Mexico, Dioon sonorense, varies with 21 environmental variables. We also used matrix population models to show how population structure may affect its long-term persistence. Slope steepness and soil exchangeable potassium explained a moderate proportion of the variance in the abundance of the adults (r2= 0.59, p = 0.03; r2= 0.63, p = 0.02, respectively). A large proportion of the variance in seedling abundance was explained by slope (r2= 0.83, p = 0.003) and adult abundance (r2= 0.70, p = 0.01). The strong non-linear relationships of seedling abundance with slope and adult abundance suggest threshold effects that may limit D. sonorense regeneration in less suitable environments. Modeling suggests that most of the study populations will not be viable in the long-term, except for the largest population. Modeling scenarios with large increments in survival produced only modest gains in population growth, and larger seed

Page 6 of 43 production schedules did not produce any measurable effect. The long-term persistence of D. sonorense, known to be threatened by widespread land conversion and plant extraction by humans, is shown in our study to be further threatened by (a) small size of adult populations, (b) low-quality habitat in which most populations occur, and potentially (c) low seedling survival rates.

5. NITROGEN CYCLING THROUGH AN AQUAPONICS SYSTEM

Amadori M1, Daley D1, and Ballard B2 1Department of Environmental Resources and Forest Engineering, SUNY-ESF, 2Department of Environmental Science, SUNY Morrisville Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-1 pm

Abstract: We will create a regression analysis model that can be used to design an aquaponics system capable of optimizing nutrient utilization and minimizing costs. An integrated aquaponics greenhouse system has been constructed by SUNY Morrisville to demonstrate year-round production of locally- grown vegetables and fish. Factors such as fish age and stocking density, as well as variations in the crop growth cycle cause nutrient fluctuations within the system. Nutrients added to the aquaculture portion of the system in the form of fish food are converted to fish biomass and excrement, which is discharged as ammonia-enriched wastewater. After nitrification, the nutrients in the wastewater are recovered through crop growth in an adjacent hydroponics system. A unique feature of this project is the ability to obtain real-time environmental and growth measurements using a SourceSentinel® system developed by O’Brien & Gere. By tracking nitrogen fluxes in the aquaculture and hydroponic systems independently, we will devise a computer model predicting how biotic factors affect nutrient cycling within this constructed artificial ecosystem. This will provide a method to optimize the design and operation of the system in response to the various stages of growth.

6. SIMULATING THE EFFECTS OF PLUG-IN HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLES ON THE ENERGY BUDGET AND TAX REVENUES FOR ONONDAGA COUNTY, NEW YORK

Balogh S Department of Environmental Science, SUNY ESF Advisor: Charlie Hall Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-1 pm

Abstract: My objectives in this study were to estimate the historical and future energy consumption in Onondaga County, predict the future effects of a large increase in plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) on energy use, and the implications of this for fuel tax collections. I also examine two possible taxation policies that could alleviate revenue shortfalls. To do so, I built a model of county energy consumption based on prorated state level energy consumption data and census data. I used two scenarios to estimate energy consumption trends over the next 30 years, and tested the effects of PHEV on energy use and fuel tax revenues. The results of this analysis indicate that PHEV can reduce county gasoline consumption and provide a net energy savings, but they would curtail county fuel tax revenues. A one- cent per vehicle-mile-traveled (VMT) tax on PHEV users provides insufficient revenue to replace reduced fuel tax collection. A sales tax on residential electricity consumption generates sufficient replacement

Page 7 of 43 revenue at low PHEV market shares. However, at high PHEV market shares, the required tax on electricity use would need to be higher than the current county tax rate.

7. WOOD GASIFICATION TAR REDUCTION

Bates, R SUNY ESF Advisor: Klaus Doelle Visit this student next to their poster from: 1-2 pm

Abstract: Wood gasification has the potential to make a significant contribution to ‘green’ energy production in areas of the country where wood resources are available. Recently I built a wood gasifier to power a pickup truck with some success. Performance was somewhat erratic and the engine air cleaner was frequently fouled by tarry deposits. After doing a literature search I found that both these problems are common to wood gasifiers. Downdraft gasifiers such as I built force the wood gas through a hot reduction zone where the heavier tar compounds are cracked into carbon dioxide and fuel gases carbon monoxide, hydrogen and methane. Downdraft gasifiers, while producing the least tar, still produce more tar than can be readily accommodated by internal combustion engines. Also, fuel requirements tend to be restricted to a certain size and under a certain moisture content. I found that only small dry wood blocks on the order of 1" to 3" diameter and 2" to 3" long work well with my gasifier.

My objective is to develop a small gasifier that can be used under fluctuating loads (e.g., to power a vehicle or for power generation under 50 KW) that produces low-tar gaseous fuel than can easily be handled by an internal combustion engine with as wide a range of fuel size and moisture content as possible. I will investigate keeping combustion temperatures as high as possible throughout gasifier operation and use of catalysts to reduce tar and increase fuel flexibility.

8. BIODIVERSITY OF MANAGED FORESTS SURROUNDING THE CALAKMUL BIOSPHERE RESERVE IN MEXICO

Bohn J¹, Diemont SAW¹, and Mendoza J² ¹Department of Environmental Resource Engineering, SUNY ESF, ²El Colegio de La Frontera Sur, Campeche, Campeche Mexico Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-2 pm

Abstract: Forest management for both ecosystem health and human provisions should be an important part of ecological engineering practice, the interface between conservation and natural resource utilization. Agroforestry for production and ecosystem health is a centuries-old form of ecological engineering utilized in many indigenous villages in Mesoamerica. Agroforestry systems relying on traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) can result in improved soil quality and forest biodiversity, as well as a critical abundance of numerous agricultural products. This study evaluates management differences in agroforestry systems of Southern Mexico and investigates if differences in forest management have an impact forest biodiversity in areas bordering the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve. Agroforestry systems

Page 8 of 43 were studied in three village communities surrounding the Calakmul Reserve in Campeche Mexico. Each village had similar community structure, population, ecotype, and utilized agroforestry as their primary means of forest management. Tree and bird diversity were analyzed in each stage of the rotation, 5-10, 10-20, and >20 years using twenty meter grids for a total of forty samples in each stage. Results were computed using the Simpson’s diversity index and ANOVA analysis. These sampling techniques will be applied in mature, unmanaged forest within each community, to act as a reference ecosystem. Interviews regarding species use, management, plantings, and origin of management knowledge were conducted at each sample site. Findings suggest that species richness and diversity were higher in communities utilizing a greater diversity of forest products, and employing a variation of management practices. It is thought that micro-management practices found in communities with higher diversity such as the planting of nurse trees, and removal of select species may also have contributed. This study will contribute to ecosystem management tools and design in sensitive areas such as those surrounding bioreserves, where inhabitants directly depend on the area’s natural resources for survival.

9. THE INFLUENCE OF THE DIASPORE (PROPAGULE) BANK AND DIASPORE RAIN ON BRYOPHYTE (MOSS) COMMUNITY COMPOSITION IN NORTHERN WHITE CEDAR SWAMPS

Bowman KC and Kimmerer RW Department of Environmental and Forest Biology, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-2 pm

Abstract: Landscape fragmentation has been shown to negatively influence biodiversity. Northern white-cedar swamps (NWCS) are among the most diverse communities in NY and are exposed to the effects of fragmentation through agriculture. Bryophytes comprise a significant portion of the biodiversity in NWCS, but their response to fragmentation is poorly understood. This study seeks to explore the impact of fragmentation on bryophyte communities in NWCS by examining the relative effects that propagule availability (diaspore bank and diaspore rain) and environmental factors (light, moisture, and substrate) have on edge and interior bryophyte community composition in Fabius Swamp, Onondaga County, NY. Bryophytes reproduce using a variety of diaspores (e.g. spores, gemmae, and fragments), all of which can be present within the diaspore rain and bank. Three sites were sampled to quantify the extant bryophyte community, the diaspore bank (soil samples), and diaspore rain (diaspore traps). The traps and soil samples were placed in a greenhouse under conditions suitable for diaspore growth along with controls. The extant, diaspore bank and diaspore rain communities were found to differ from one another in composition. Several taxa found within the diaspore rain were absent from the existing communities. These observations can be explained, in part, by the life histories of the different species, but may be suggestive of limitations in current understanding of dispersal abilities of certain taxa. This work will help assess the vulnerability of bryophytes to landscape level impacts such as fragmentation and may inform their use as indicators of environmental functions.

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10. VARIATIONS OF ATMOSPHERIC CO2 AT URBAN AND RESIDENTIAL SITES WITHIN SYRACUSE, N.Y.

Buckley SM and Mitchell, MJ Department of Environmental and Forest Biology, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 1-2 pm

Abstract: Urban areas have been identified as major contributors of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions to the atmosphere. With the recent designation of CO2 as an air pollutant by the EPA, it is now more important than ever to understand the concentrations and dynamics of CO2. Many studies have documented CO2 levels across a rural-suburban-urban transect, identifying an “urban CO2 dome” within the urban region, varying in intensity depending on a number of factors including meteorology, topography and climate of each study location. In order to further explore the relationship of CO2 levels within urban environments, this study compares CO2 concentrations at two sites of different composition within Syracuse, N.Y.: one within the commercial downtown district and the other in a residential neighborhood. The commercial site is located in close proximity to two major interstate highways and the downtown area. The residential site is located to the southwest of the commercial site, within a city park with greater density of vegetation. Both are collecting 15-minute CO2 concentration averages taken at ~50 m tower using a GE Telaire 7000 series CO2 instrument. Preliminary results show a strong diurnal cycle, which varies at the downtown site between weekend and weekdays, suggesting a greater traffic influence compared to the residential site. Seasonal variations between the summer and fall seasons are most prominent at the downtown site. The results of this study, in conjunction with traffic count measurements currently being recorded at the downtown site, will give insight to the impact of traffic within cities.

11. IMPACTS OF CHANGES TO FOREST STRUCTURE ON AEROSOL FORMATION AND DEPOSITION IN URBAN AREAS

Cabaraban MTI and Kroll CN Department of Environmental Resources and Forest Engineering, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 1-2 pm

Abstract: Aerosol, or particulate matter (PM), is a major pollutant in cities in both developing and developed countries. Aerosols have been known to cause adverse health effects, reduced visibility, and climate modulation. Due to the interrelationship between atmospheric chemical species, reductions in aerosol precursors could in fact lead to increased rates of particle formation. The complex and nonlinear nature of urban aerosol processes suggests the need for integrated, science-based control strategies. An ecosystem approach provides potentially low-cost opportunities to address urban air pollution problems. In this research, the role urban trees and vegetation play in aerosol pollution is investigated. Work specifically focuses on how the processes of emissions, chemistry, and dry deposition contribute to aerosol production, and the optimization of ecosystem benefits from urban trees. The Community Multiscale Air Quality (CMAQ) model will be integrated with the Urban Forest Effects (UFORE) model to simulate urban aerosol processes. The CMAQ model will be used to simulate the spatial distribution of aerosol hot spots across an urban area, providing the input needed in a distributed UFORE model to estimate fluxes of dry deposition to urban trees. The coupled CMAQ-UFORE model will be combined

Page 10 of 43 with an optimization algorithm to examine cost-effective patterns of altering the urban forest to maximize airborne pollutant removal benefits or minimize exposure risk to pollutants. This model is expected to be used as a decision support tool to improve urban forest management to achieve air pollution reduction goals.

12. MONITORING SCOTCH PINE INFESTED BY SIREX NOCTILIO USING HYPERSPECTRAL DATA: A LABORATORY STUDY

Calandra LN, Zhang W, Quackenbush LJ, Im J, and Teale SA Departments of Environmental Resources and Forest Engineering, and Environmental and Forest Biology, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12:30-2 pm

Abstract: Sirex noctilio is an invasive insect native to Europe and north Africa that has the potential to devastate North American softwoods. The current extent of Sirex infestations in the United States has been approximated using expensive, and marginally effective, ground-based surveys. This study is part of a project aimed at using remote sensing to perform individual tree-based assessment of Sirex infestation. Because the Sirex toxin causes rapid chlorophyll breakdown, it is expected to create a spectral response in early infestations that is different from the response from other insects or disease. In this study, samples from healthy and infested Scotch pine trees (Pinus sylvestris) were collected in the field and then hyperspectral data were acquired in the laboratory using a hand-held spectroradiometer. Two vegetation indices— i.e. red edge position (REP) and normalized difference water index (NDWI)— were investigated for indicating health status of Scotch pine based on the lab-measured hyperspectral data. Three different methods were used to calculate REPs of healthy and infested needle samples with linear extrapolation demonstrating advantages in separating healthy from infested samples based on the results of paired t-tests. The optimal wavelength grouping for NDWI calculations was selected from all possible combinations of two narrow bands within the range of 350–2500 nm using paired t-tests. Compared to REP, NDWI was superior in discriminating between healthy and Sirex-infested Scotch pine, therefore this index is recommended for future work.

13. THE IMPACT OF TRADE ON CARBON DIOXIDE EMISSIONS: THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN TRADE AND EMISSIONS AND/OR EMISSION TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER

Choi J Department of Forest and Natural Resources Management, SUNY ESF Advisor: Luzadis VA

Abstract: Do the extent and scope of international trade by individual countries help to understand the way how income and pollution relate? Can a country reduce emissions by doing trade with certain countries? I present two models based on the studies of international R&D spillover and trade-pollution relationship, to estimate the effect of foreign carbon technology on domestic carbon emissions. Import weighted production efficiency of carbon is used as a proxy for a stock of foreign carbon emissions technology along with other economic variables. The analysis is based on three datasets: OECD STAN dataset, World Bank’s World Development Index, and IEA CO2 emissions from fuel combustion. First finding of the study is that domestic carbon intensity of production in steel and iron sector is positively related to carbon intensity of foreign iron and steel industry, suggesting technology transfer through

Page 11 of 43 trade. The second finding is that the amount of trade itself positively affects the level of domestic carbon dioxide emissions, while interaction between carbon intensity of trading partners and amount of trade does affect domestic carbon dioxide emissions negatively. The result suggests that the countries in the sample have lowered their CO2 emissions, when they imported goods from countries with higher carbon intensity at higher volume, implying displacement of pollution. The messages in the findings are clear. The increase in trade itself does not decrease carbon emissions domestically. Rather this study suggests that a policy should focus on how to trade on what products to reduce domestic carbon emissions and carbon intensity.

14. FOUNDATIONS IN FOREST POLICY AND MANAGEMENT: LANDOWNER AND LAND MANAGER AWARENESS OF AND ATTITUDES TOWARD INVASIVE SPECIES IN ADIRONDACK FORESTS

Conrad SM and Luzadis VA Department of Forest and Natural Resources Management, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-2 pm

Abstract: Due to the high number of non-native invasive species in New York State, the Adirondack Park faces new challenges to managing forestland for biodiversity. Little recognition has been given to the importance of incorporating private landowners in management schemes. Furthermore, to be successful, regional invasive species management plans must incorporate the values of all stakeholders, particularly in mixed public-private areas such as the Adirondack Park. Since little is known about the attitudes, awareness, intentions, and behavior of landowners and land managers toward non-native species, a survey was developed and implemented to assess these topics in the Adirondack Park. Although findings suggested that the majority of landowners and land managers had unfavorable attitudes toward non-native invasive species, awareness of non-native invasive species differed greatly between the two groups. Additionally, intentions to perform non-native invasive species management varied between landowners and land managers, with the later group having greater intentions and having performed more management activities. These results can enhance regional invasive species management plans and influence policies by reflecting the views and values of stakeholders, as well as assist outreach groups and non-profit organizations develop educational materials and programs. This study will also provide a survey template that can be applied to other mixed-ownership forested regions.

15. DETERMINATION AND COMPARISON OF LIPID CONTENT IN THE GREEN ALGAE, CLADOPHORA GLOMERATA AND CHLORELLA VULGARIS

Cummings MA1, Boyer GL1, Johnson DL1, and Giarrusso S2 1Departments of Chemistry and Environmental Science, SUNY-ESF, 2Town of Minoa Wastewater Treatment Facility, NY Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-1 pm

Abstract: The study of algae for potential biofuels has been extensively studied over the last few years. Some strains of microalgae are seen as good candidates for fuels such as biodiesel because of their rapid growth, biomass productivity and high lipid content. However, several time and energy consuming steps still stand in the way of algal biodiesel becoming a cost effective competitor to traditional fuels. For

Page 12 of 43 example, the harvesting of microalgal species such as Chlorella remains as one of the inefficiencies of this process. Here, we have studied the growth and harvesting of the macroalgae, Cladophora as an alternative to using microalgae. Our aim was to determine Cladophora’s biomass production and lipid content as compared to other biofuel candidates such as Chlorella vulgaris. Different solvents were compared for their efficiency in extracting total lipids using a Soxlet extractor and the total lipid content determined gravimetrically, fluorometrically by staining with Nile Red, and instrumentally by newer methods such as Time-Domain resolved NMR. We hope that the application of TD-NMR will offer a quick and precise method for determining lipid content in macroalgae species such as Cladophora, opening the possibility of using this technique for screening different growth conditions to optimize biofuels production.

16. SCENARIOS: SIMPLE STEPS AND CHALLENGING PROCESS del Granado S, Manno J, Heinzen B, Rodriquez B, Montefrio M, and Larkin A SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-2 pm

Abstract: The recognition that decisions need to be made in spite of uncertainty has prompted the development of scenarios. Humans have recognized the limits of scientific knowledge, the uncertainty due to inherent determinisms of complex systems, and the uncertainty related to humans as observers and actors able to modify and influence their future through changes in present behavior. Scenarios are used to illustrate and communicate possible and plausible futures integrating quantitative and qualitative methods. A one week seminar was organized between students at SU and SUNY-ESF to learn about the development, application, and uses of scenarios through a case study. The potential uses for Bolivia’s natural gas and lithium resources to alleviate poverty and foster sustainable development was chosen as the simulation topic. The class learned by doing. Four scenarios were created and presented to in-role Bolivian government officials. Building meaningful and user-friendly scenarios requires skills of interdisciplinary systems analysis, creative and plausible narrative communication, cross-cultural collaboration and practical policy knowledge and experience. It is an intensely collaborative process that shows plausible ends and possible intervention points.

17. A HOPE FOR CORALS: THE IMPORTANCE OF HETEROTROPHY

Estes B and Teece M Department of Chemistry, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-2 pm

Abstract: Coral reefs are an extremely important marine ecosystem. They are the most biologically diverse habitat per unit area in all the oceans, and are a very valuable piece of the world’s economy. The sad part is through industrialization, and reckless actions, people have caused corals to decline in health and abundance throughout the world. In the Caribbean coral reefs face a multitude of hardships including ocean acidification, ocean warming, and ultraviolet radiation. However, corals are versatile eaters which can filter feed food carried in the ocean waters as well as take photosynthetically produced food from the symbiotic algae (zooxanthellae) living inside their tissue. Even though corals strongly

Page 13 of 43 depend on their zooxanthellae for their survival they can be found at depths significantly below sea level where sunlight isn’t as abundant. My research helped identify the differences between deep and shallow coral feeding strategies on a reef system off the Cayman Islands. Through stable isotope values of carbon and nitrogen I found supporting evidence for my hypothesis that shallow water corals predominantly rely on photosynthesis, where as deeper corals utilize filter feeding as well as photosynthesis. It’s important to understand how corals at depth differ in feeding strategies relative to shallower corals because shallower corals will be more accessible to fall victim to many of the threatening environmental changes our planet is going through.

18. PLANT COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND INVASIBILITY AT AN INDUSTRIAL WASTE RESTORATION SITE

Farrell ML and Leopold DJ Department of Environmental and Forest Biology, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-1:30 pm

Abstract: In Onondaga County a total of 567 ha in the town of Camillus and surrounding Onondaga Lake are covered by settling basins containing the byproducts of the industrial process known as the Solvay Process. Physical and chemical conditions on the waste beds inhibit vegetative growth leading to increased erosion, and rain water percolating through the waste beds generates highly salinated leachate that contaminates surrounding waterways. The purpose of this study is to facilitate permanent establishment of native wetland species on one of the Solvay waste beds and decrease the presence of invasive species through the manipulation of deleterious abiotic factors and the planting of competitive wetland species. In May of 2009 I collected seed bank samples before and after applying an herbicide treatment and tilling the soil on waste bed 14 to gain an understanding of species diversity on the site and investigate the benefits of manipulating soil conditions prior to beginning a restoration project. In both seed bank samples the ten most frequently occurring species were a combination of native and non-native species and Lythrum salicaria seedlings germinated at the highest density. Although similar species emerged from both sets of samples, 6640 seedlings germinated in the pre-tilling seed bank samples while only 2752 germinated in the post-tilling samples. These results suggest that manipulating soil conditions before planting significantly decreases seed bank emergence and as such, could be a beneficial strategy for managing initial germination of aggressive invasive species on a restoration site.

19. A GIS AND REMOTE SENSING APPROACH TO EFFICIENT RENEWABLE ENERGY PRODUCTION

Gleason C and Im J Department of Environmental Resources and Forest Engineering, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12:30-2 pm

Abstract: The current energy grid is remarkably inefficient and ill equipped to deal with emerging alternative energy production in areas of the country where potential for wind, solar, hydro and other forms of potential can be harnessed. Currently, there is much research in assessing the feasibility and reliability of new energy technologies, and ways to improve these electricity producing processes is an exciting and expanding field. This research will provide an outlet for these new technologies through

Page 14 of 43 several GIS and remote sensing techniques. Firstly, population growth will be modeled to provide a context for where electricity will be needed on several temporal scales . Secondly, each of the following renewable energy technologies (as defined by the International Energy Association): solar photovoltaic, wind, hydroelectric, and renewable biomass will be mapped using remotely sensed images and/or LIDAR data. A measure of electric potential will be extracted from every area on the map, and this information will be used in conjunction with population distribution and the existing transmission grid to develop an optimal siting for each source of renewable energy. A comparison of the final produced electric potential will be made to the National Renewable Energy Labs’ mapped output generated from various agency survey data, and differences will be explained.

20. DELIGNIFICATION OF SUGAR MAPLE WITH PERACETIC ACID

Gong C, Goundalkar MJ, Bujanovic BM, and Amidon TE Department of Paper and Bioprocess Engineering, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 1-2 pm

Abstract: To increase value in the pulp and paper industry, hot-water extraction (HWE) of wood prior to pulping has been suggested. One significant benefit of HWE prior to pulping is a faster kraft delignification of extracted wood compared to unextracted wood, most likely due to a higher porosity of wood and somewhat disrupted lignin-carbohydrate association. In this study, we evaluate delignification potential of peracetic acid (PAA) as an alternative to sulfur-based kraft pulping technology. Laboratory studies have shown that PAA is a powerful and selective delignification agent of wood. We performed the PAA delignification of unextracted and HW-extracted sugar maple under room temperature. It was confirmed that PAA has a very good selectivity for unextracted sugar maple; however, a reduced selectivity on the wood after HWE was also observed. In an attempt to increase selectivity, a step of ethanol extraction of wood was added between HWE and PAA delignification. Based on our previous study, ethanol could remove extra lignin while protecting wood polysaccharides in HW-extracted wood. The results showed that the selectivity of PAA delignification of HW-ethanol-extracted wood increased almost twice compared with that of HW-extracted wood. This opens a pathway for a sequential non- sulfur-based delignification of wood consisting of the HWE step followed by extraction with ethanol and PAA delignification.

21. EFFECT OF HOT-WATER EXTRACTION ON NON-CARBOHYDRATE COMPONENTS OF HARDWOODS

Goundalkar MJ, Bujanovic B, and Amidon TE Department of Paper and Bioprocess Engineering, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-1 pm

Abstract: The results presented herein are part of a study to assess the contribution of non- carbohydrate components of hot-water extracts (HWE) and hot-water extracted wood to broaden the scope of the hemicellulose based SUNY-ESF biorefinery by generating value-added chemicals. The HWE of three hardwood species, namely willow, white birch and sugar maple, were analyzed by GC/MS for low-molecular weight compounds by sequential extraction with organic solvents. These compounds were compared to the extractives present in native wood chips. Pronounced dissimilarity between

Page 15 of 43 organic compounds in the HWE compared to those found in regular extractives is indicative of possible lignin degradation during hot-water extraction. For example, compounds such as p-hydroxybenzoic acid and syringaldehyde were abundant in the HWE whereas the extractives were rich in long chain hydrocarbons and fatty acids. Understanding the composition of organic compounds in HWE should therefore give perspective on the nature of lignin after hot-water extraction and its subsequent commercial viability along with possible utilization of these organic compounds as value-added platform chemicals. Separation of such organic compounds would also lead to an increase in fermentation efficiency of the hemicellulose rich HWE.

22. A LOOK AT THE ECONOMIC EFFICIENCIES OF CARIBBEAN COUNTRIES, THEIR DEPENDANCE ON FOSSIL FUELS, AND FUTURE

Gupta AK, Murphy DJ, and Hall CAS SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 1-2 pm

Abstract: A major tenet of most contemporary economists is that economic efficiency will increase upon entering into the free-market. We have made an attempt to test this hypothesis for 20 Caribbean nations. Although economic efficiency is rarely defined by economists in a way that is testable, we were able to define a proxy economic efficiency as output as GDP over input as total national energy consumption for the period of 1980 to 2006. For sensitivity analysis, we also included solar radiation transformities to the denominators to see what effect the natural capital of each nation had to the contribution of its GDP. We found that overall most Caribbean countries are becoming less efficient, despite the increasing use of free market economic policies. We also found that the natural capital is not contributing much to GDP compared to the consumption of fossil fuels, which contribute 90-100% to energy consumption of all 20 countries. This percentage is on average higher than that for most other regions. Given this declining efficiency and heavy economic dependence on fossil fuels, we conclude that the future of the Caribbean region could become very unstable with the depletion of cheap fossil fuels.

23. CHARACTERIZING CRITICAL THERMAL ENVIRONMENTS: APPLICATIONS TO HABITAT SUITABILITY MODELING FOR MOOSE (ALCES ALCES)

Haase CG and Underwood HB Department of Environmental and Forest Biology, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-2 pm

Abstract: Analyses have revealed that moose populations in the Midwest have been declining over the last 40 years; biologists believe that these declines are attributed to warming temperatures. Although moose can survive in cold temperatures due to their large body size, thick skin, and dense coat, they are vulnerable to heat stress; thus their southern range boundary is defined by temperature. Moose become heat stressed at temperatures as low as –5°C in the late winter and 14°C in summer, as solar radiation and ambient temperatures increase. Because moose are physiologically limited in their ability to dissipate heat, they resort to behavioral thermoregulation to avoid thermal stress. I used

Page 16 of 43 measurements of temperature in the field, analyses of hemispherical photographs, and GIS to build a model of operative temperature (which incorporates solar radiation and wind speed along with temperature) for three forest cover-types in the Adirondack Mountains of New York. Operative temperatures calculations reflected changes in solar radiation, which decreased throughout the season in a direct relationship to canopy openness. Hardwoods, with the highest canopy openness in spring, contained the highest operative temperatures, while softwoods exhibited less solar radiation transmission; both decreased in openness and operative temperature in summer. The model was validated with black-globe thermometer readings taken throughout the park. The agreement between predicted and observed operative temperatures was good despite the variation in stand structure and microclimate. My analysis corroborates the importance of conifer stands to the yearlong heat balance of moose, which I outline in a spatially-explicit, habitat suitability model.

24. SPATIAL VARIATION IN HYPORHEIC FLUX ALONG A RIVER WITH TIGHT MEANDER BENDS

Han B Departments of Environmental Science and Environmental Resources and Forest Engineering, SUNY ESF Advisor: Ted Endreny Visit this student next to their poster from: 12:30-1:30 pm

Abstract: River meander bends tighten as they approach cutoff, and the flow of river water across the meander point bar is termed hyporheic flux. As the river evolves, cutoff occurs at the point bar neck. Current morphological theory of river evolution predicts hyporheic flux will intensify at the point bar as the river meander tightens and the width of the point bar neck narrows, but no evidence has been presented to support this theory. We used a laboratory river-groundwater system and computer simulations of river-groundwater system to document spatial changes in river elevation and hyporheic flux along tight meander bends. Our laboratory results provide data supporting model theory. The laboratory river-groundwater system, 2.1m long by 0.9m wide, held 0.3mm sand with flows of 20ml/s, and generated tight meander bends in approximately 60-min. When meander tightness approached cutoff, hydraulic gradients were surveyed and hyporheic flux measured with dye injection and tracking. At the meander neck, hydraulic gradients were steepest, and hyporheic flux was greatest. As river distance approached the meander apex, which is furthest from the neck, gradients flattened, and hyporheic flux weakened. Computer simulation supports these trends, and suggests hydraulic gradients and hyporheic fluxes are affected by the immediate meander geometry and neighboring meander geometry. Initial field results from Labrador Creek, Truxton, NY, support our laboratory and computer results.

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25. MONITORING TAP WATER FOR TRACE CONTAMINANTS USING AN ON-LINE, REAL-TIME, MEMBRANE-BASED EXTRACTION CELL

Harrington L and Hassett JP Department of Environmental Chemistry, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-2 pm

Abstract: Tap water quality is always of concern, but testing is usually infrequent due to the time and costs involved. Many tap water sources begin with natural bodies of water, usually fresh water lakes, which are subject to changing conditions and are often susceptible to contamination from sources such as agricultural runoff and recreational boating. A membrane-based extraction cell has been designed to monitor a continuous supply of water, such as that leaving a water treatment plant, for volatile and semi-volatile organic contaminants. The extraction cell consists of two stainless steel plates with channels machined out of them and a polydimethylsiloxane membrane between them. The water sample flows on one side of the membrane and a clean gas stream flows on the other. The cell is heated to aid in the transport of compounds from the sample to the gas stream. From the cell, the gas stream passes through a trap to further concentrate the analytes before being directed to a GC-MS for analysis. Syracuse tap water has been monitored over the summer of 2009 for trihalomethanes (THM) and the gasoline components: benzene, toluene, m,p-xylene, o-xylene, and propylbenzenes. Tap water for the City of Syracuse usually comes from Skaneateles Lake, which is also used for recreational boating. THM levels remained mostly constant throughout the summer. Increases in gasoline components in the tap water were observed over summer weekends, from a background level of 5-10 ng/L per compound to peak concentrations around 50 ng/L.

26. THE INFLUENCE OF LANDSCAPE FACTORS ON LONG-TERM BEAVER SITE OCCUPANCY

Harrison AH1, Stella JC1, McNulty S2 1Department of Forestry and Natural Resources Management, 2Adirondack Ecological Center, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12:30-2 pm

Abstract: The recovery of beaver (Castor canadensis) populations since the cessation of widespread trapping in the early 20th century represents an important non-equilibrium disturbance process in northern forests. Beaver not only alter ecosystems by impounding water and creating ponds, but also by removing woody vegetation from the surrounding terrestrial ecosystems, which changes forest community structure. The duration of beaver occupancy is determined by natural landscape and forest suitability and it is enhanced by the habitat alterations made by beaver to the landscape. The magnitude of beaver impacts on the landscape, and conversely, the landscape and habitat factors that sustain their long-term populations, cannot be fully understood with short-term (<5 yrs) records of beaver occupancy in forests communities that change over decadal scales. Using a multi-decadal dataset (30 yrs) we established predictors of beaver occupancy, theorizing that long-term occupancy at a site is a function of forest resources (food quality and quantity), the landscape’s capacity to support suitable beaver habitat (e.g. topography and hydrology), and the site-specific costs required for dam construction and maintenance. We used linear modeling to evaluate these influences on the duration of beaver occupancy at 14 pond and wetland sites in the central Adirondack Mountains, New York. We

Page 18 of 43 included all non-correlated variables into alternative, plausible regression models to predict the duration of site occupancy and selected the optimal model using AIC. The best model for predicting beaver occupancy (R2 = 0.90) included beaver forage area, total dam volume and hardwood stand basal area within the forage area.

27. EFFECTS OF PH ON PARTIAL NITRIFICATION AND ANAEROBIC AMMONIUM OXIDATION IN ECOLOGICAL TREATMENT SYSTEMS

He Y and Tao W Department of Environmental Resources Engineering, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12:30-1:30 pm

Abstract: High ammonia removal has been reported under anaerobic and low-oxygen conditions in constructed wetlands, which were attributed to partial nitrification (conversion of ammonium to nitrite) and anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox), in addition to conventional nitrification and denitrification pathways. This study is to better understand the partial nitrification - anammox process in different ecological treatment systems and to find out optimum pH value for operation. We set up two types of ecological treatment systems, two biofilters, which are filled with marble chips, and two free water surface constructed wetlands. We used slag, a byproduct of metal smelting with main composition of metallic oxides, to increase pH to 8.2-8.5 in one biofilter and one constructed wetland. All four treatment systems are fed and drained every seven days, with synthetic influent (300 mg/L NH4Cl-N). Through the initial 5 weeks of operation, the biofilter with slag already showed slightly higher removal efficiency than the other one. We expect partial nitrification and anammox be further enhanced under basic conditions (pH 8.2-8.5) after a certain period of acclimatization. Stable isotopic tracers will be used to verify and quantify the occurrence of partial nitrification and anammox relative to nitrification and denitrification.

28. A PROMISING ALTERNATIVE SURVEY METHOD FOR EMERALD ASH BORER USING THE WASP CERCERIS FUMIPENNIS

Hellman WE and Fierke, MK Department of Environmental Science and Forestry, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12:30-2 pm

The invasive emerald ash borer (EAB) (Agrilus planipennis Fairmare, Coleoptera: Buprestidae) has caused widespread ash mortality in North America since its discovery in Michigan over a decade ago. The beetle has spread to 13 states and two Canadian provinces and was discovered June 2009 in the town of Randolph in southwestern New York. Early detection of new populations is necessary for effective management. We are using a native digger wasp, Cerceris fumipennis Say, that hunts buprestid beetles as it is an efficient and effective survey tool for EAB. Last summer, we identified 18 C. fumipennis colonies throughout the state but did not find any colonies near the infested area. From these colonies, 318 buprestid beetles were collected representing 28 species from 11 genera. This summer, we will experimentally establish wasp colonies at three locations near Randolph, NY to facilitate delimitation of the infestation and determine direction of spread. We will continue to monitor

Page 19 of 43 the colonies for new EAB infestations in high risk areas and build phenologies of presence and abundance of our native beetles. In addition, we will use C. fumipennis to establish baseline data to evaluate changes in presence and abundance of native beetles post release of exotic parasitoids against EAB in Michigan to control EAB. This research will provide valuable information for early detection and response to new EAB outbreaks as well as contributing to our understanding of the Randolph infestation and will provide essential data to evaluate effects of releases of exotic parasitoids.

29. OPTIMIZATION OF ANAEROBICALLY DIGESTED DAIRY MANURE PARAMETERS FOR PHOSPHORUS RECOVERY

Huchzermeier M and Tao W Department of Environmental Resources Engineering, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12:30-2 pm

Abstract: Recovering phosphorus from wastewater is increasingly used as a treatment technology for removing nutrients from waste streams which are known to cause environmental impacts such as eutrophication. Phosphorus can be recovered from wastewater in the form of a precipitate: magnesium ammonium phosphate hexahydrate (MAP). Also referred to as struvite, precipitated MAP is crystallized and applied as a solid fertilizer for agricultural, residential, and recreational land-use applications due to its slow-release properties. To enhance struvite precipitation and crystallization, wastewater must be pH-adjusted and supplemented with magnesium. Anaerobically digested dairy manure samples were collected from the SUNY Morrisville Dairy Complex and found to be rich in ammonium and phosphates. Several bench-scale tests were conducted to determine optimal pH-adjustment and magnesium amendment parameters specific to anaerobically digested liquid dairy manure. Precipitates were separated by filtration through 1.0μm pore size glass fiber filters and observed under stereoscopic microscope for crystal structure. An air-lift pump driven reactor will be used to test the efficacy of struvite crystallization under the optimum pH adjustment and magnesium amendment parameters. By recycling nutrients, recovering phosphorus by struvite precipitation and crystallization offers farmers a more sustainable approach to manure management.

30. SUPER-RESOLUTION RECONSTRUCTION USING INDICATOR VARIOGRAMS AND LOCAL SPATIAL STRUCTURE

Jin H and Mountrakis G Department of Environmental Resources and Forest Engineering, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 1-2 pm

Abstract: Super-resolution reconstruction is a recently developed research issue in the field of remotely sensed information processing. It provides the possibility to obtain land cover maps at a finer scale using relatively low-resolution images. The current algorithm based on indicator geostatistics provides a methodological framework for incorporating prior information. However, there are still some unsolved issues, such as the inference of a structural model at the target resolution and the optimization of the multiple realizations, which constrain the implementation of this method.

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Considering these problems, we proposed a new method of super-resolution reconstruction using local spatial structure. Indicator variograms extracted from high-resolution classification results over representative local areas (as opposed to the entire image) were used to characterize the spatial structure of different land cover classes. The obtained structural models were then used in the subsequent downscaling process. We also applied post-processing methods to the optimization of the multiple realizations to achieve a higher accuracy of the resulting thematic maps at a finer scale. The initial results of a case study indicated our methodology as a promising alternative.

31. LINKING TRADITIONAL AGROFORESTRY PRACTICES OF THE TSOTSIL MAYA IN SANTO DOMINGO LAS PALMAS, CHIAPAS, MEXICO TO ECOSYSTEM BIODIVERSITY, LAND MANAGEMENT SUSTAINABILITY, AND COMMUNITY SUBJECTIVE WELL-BEING.

Kelsen S and Diemont S Departments of Environmental Resources and Forest Engineering, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-2 pm

Abstract: The Tsotsil Maya of Santo Domingo las Palmas, Chiapas, Mexico practice various forms of land management, including traditional agroforestry, corn (milpa) farming, and cattle ranching, while maintaining surrounding communal forest land. Tsotsil traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) originates in the highlands of Chiapas, Mexico, therefore its application to lowland forest ecosystems provides a working example of biocultural restoration and adaptation. Traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) may offer tools for ecological engineering to sustainably integrate human needs, ecological restoration, sustainability, and conservation. This study aims to understand how the land management techniques practiced by the Tsotsil Maya affect their subjective well-being, ecosystem biodiversity, and land management sustainability. The goal of the study is to better understand the link between humans’ well-being, or happiness, and ecosystem health and to create a community-scale indicator framework for the assessment of this relationship within various production systems. TEK may offer insight to the western world in envisioning humans as part of their ecosystem, a fundamental principal of ecological engineering. Land management sustainability was assessed using Emergy analysis and was coupled with an assessment of subjective well-being using a modified Psychological Needs Theory questionnaire. Ecosystem biodiversity, immediate use of planted species, and soil-fertility enhancement was assessed through collaborative fieldwork with local farmers.

32. COMPARISION OF TOTAL BELOWGROUND CARBON ALLOCATION IN YOUNG AND MATURE HARDWOOD FORESTS IN THE WHITE MOUNTAINS, NEW HAMPSHIRE

Kikang B1, Yanai RD1, and Fahey TJ2 1Department of Forest and Natural Resource Management, SUNY ESF, 2Department of Natural Resources, Cornell University Visit this student next to their poster from: 12:30-1:30 pm

Abstract: Soil is the largest terrestrial reservoir of carbon. On a global scale, understanding the total belowground carbon allocation (TBCA) is critical to determine the global carbon budget. Three young

Page 21 of 43 sites (27 to 31 years) and three mature sites (more than 120 years) are chosen to compare soil carbon dynamics in northern hardwood forests in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. In this study, TBCA was estimated by measuring the difference between annual rates of soil CO2 efflux and litterfall production. The specific aims of this paper are: to report how TBCA differed in their responses to environmental factors between the young and mature forests, and to figure out the factors such as fine root biomass and litterfall production affecting TBCA. TBCA was higher in mature forests than young forests because seasonal patterns of soil CO2 efflux were higher in mature forests than young forests. However, litterfall productions in both young and mature forests were not significantly different. Soil

CO2 efflux showed a correlation with soil temperature and fine root biomass, but no correlation with litterfall production. Most likely, mature forests have higher TBCA because by more fine root biomass. Also, we expected more TBCA at the mature sites due to deeper soil layer and greater biological activity. This result can suggest that mature forests have more capacity to sequestrate carbon in soil than young forests. Even though it is difficult to estimate carbon in soil, considering belowground carbon would be at least as important as considering aboveground carbon.

33. THE LAKE THAT WAS: HISTORIC HABITATS OF ONONDAGA LAKE

Landis CL1, Kimmerer RW1, Leopold DJ1, Hall M2, and Czowlowski E2 1Department of Environmental and Forest Biology, 2Department of Environmental Studies, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 1-2 pm

Abstract: The goal of this project is to illuminate the historical ecology of Onondaga Lake including flora and fauna, as well as more general characters relating to lake hydrology, soils, and nutrient status. These data should inform the discussion of Onondaga Lake restoration by highlighting reference conditions both ecological and cultural. What was Onondaga Lake like prior to extensive European settlement and what cultural practices maintained it so? We researched old maps, texts, newspapers, local flora, theses, and other written documents. We also interviewed experts in history, hydrogeology, fisheries, botany. Findings to date suggest that Onondaga Lake supported remarkably varied and rich habitats, as well as abundant wildlife and fisheries. Evidence points to varied hydrogeologic settings and salinity gradients which resulted in a diversity of plant and animal communities. Wetlands such as northern white cedar swamps and inland salt marshes fringed lake margins. Various wildlife including passenger pigeons (Ectopistes migratorius), elk (Cervus elaphus), and bison (Bison bison) visited the salt springs. Eastern massasagua rattlesnakes (Sistrurus catenatus) were also present around the lake. In aquatic habitats Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar), American eel (Anguilla rostrata), burbot (Lota lota), lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens) were once plentiful. Results underline the magnitude of lost biological capital, and ecosystem services associated with this damaged lake and its tributaries. The historical data can also help recover the Lake's image in the public eye and “raise the bar” for restoration efforts. This project represents a continuing effort with many sources yet to be tapped.

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34. NEW TECHNIQUES IN SOIL SAMPLING: METHODS TO IMPROVE LONG-TERM ECOLOGICAL RESEARCH

Levine CR1, Yanai RD1, Hamburg SP2, Wielopolski L3, and Mitra S3 1Department of Forest and Natural Resource Management, SUNY ESF, 2Center for Environmental Studies, Brown University, 3Brookhaven National Laboratory Visit this student next to their poster from: 12:30-2 pm

Abstract: A major source of uncertainty in the calculation of nutrient budgets results from imprecise and inaccurate soil sampling techniques. Traditional soil sampling methods, such as soil coring are limited in rocky soils and often underestimate root and rock volume. Quantitative soil pits resolve this problem, but are notably laborious. To improve limitations of traditional measurements, we are testing a novel method of soil collection and analysis at sites in New Hampshire, Maine, and Vermont. We tested a gas-powered, diamond-bit drill which can core through large roots and rocks to a depth of 90 cm or more, thereby eliminating the biases of manual coring. The samples we collected were compared to soils collected via quantitative soil pits located within 2 m of the core to determine if exchangeable cation concentrations were consistent between power-cored soils and pit soils.

We expected to find higher cation concentrations in the soil cores as compared to the pits, as a result of ground rock that enters the core during sampling. We found significantly higher concentrations of Al (p<0.001), Ca (p=0.03), Fe (p<0.001), K (p=0.002), Mg (p<0.001), Mn (p=0.04), and Si (p<0.001) in the cores as compared to the pits. Analyses of different segments of the cored samples revealed significantly higher concentrations of Mg (p=0.04) and Sr (p=0.008) at the edge of the core, presumably due to this contamination by ground rock. This method offers important improvements in speed and reproducibility over traditional methods of soil sampling, and can improve our understanding belowground ecological processes.

35. A VOLUMETRIC APPROACH TO POPULATION ESTIMATION USING LIDAR REMOTE SENSING

Lu Z and Im J Department of Environmental Resources and Forest Engineering, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 1-2 pm

Abstract: Population information is important for many socio-economic applications including urban planning, conservation planning and management of natural resources. This research investigated the usability of LiDAR data for population estimation at census block level using a volumetric approach. The study area is near the downtown of Denver, CO, and contains different types of residential buildings. A modified morphology filtering algorithm was developed to extract building footprints using three LiDAR- derived surfaces: a first return-based height surface (first return – bare Earth), a last return-based height surface (last return – bare Earth), and the difference of first and last return surfaces. Residential buildings with categories of single-family houses and multiple-family houses (i.e., apartments) were then identified from the building footprints using the parcel data. The volume of the residential buildings calculated using LiDAR-derived information was used to estimate population based on both simple and multiple linear regression analyses. A conventional area-based approach was also evaluated for

Page 23 of 43 comparison. The assessment of population estimation included calibration and validation with four statistical metrics (i.e., R2, adjust R2, RMSE, and relative RMSE). The results indicated that the volume- based approach outperformed the area-based one, and the volumetric approach based on multiple regression resulted in the most accurate population estimation. This LiDAR-based research provided a novel methodology for population estimation in regions where various types of residential buildings are mixed.

36. INCORPORATING INTERMEDIATE RESULTS IN REMOTE SENSING CLASSIFIERS

Luo L and Mountrakis G Departments of Environmental Science and Environmental Resources and Forest Engineering, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-2 pm

Abstract: With the constant proliferation of computational power, our ability to develop hybrid classifiers has increased. Hybrid classifiers integrate results from multiple algorithms and often improve classification accuracy. In our research, a hierarchical context-specific multi-process system was investigated to map impervious surface at a pixel level. The classification process is comprised of a series of steps. In each step, parts of the dataset are classified while the rest are forwarded to subsequent classifiers. Partial classification results from prior classifiers were processed to create "intermediate inputs" which are used to assist classification of subsequent steps. These additional intermediate inputs were based on spatial and texture statistics calculated on a partially classified image.

For the purpose of studying the characteristics of intermediate inputs and whether it improves classification accuracy in subsequent steps, the "intermediate inputs" concept was implemented on an impervious surface classification task using a 2001 Landsat ETM+ image from central New York area. Classification results by using intermediate inputs and not were compared which demonstrated that intermediate inputs improved classification accuracy compared to traditional classification methods and successfully tackled traditionally different problems such as separation of impervious surfaces and soil.

37. EFFECTS OF SULFITE PRE-TREATMENTS ON LIGNOCELLULOSICS

Mahmud S and Lai YZ Department of Paper and Bioprocess Engineering, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-1:30 pm

Abstract: The extent of delignification of different pulps by different sulfite pretreatments was evaluated in this study. Sodium Sulfite was used for the study as the reactions of sulfite groups are more predictable and applicable. The sulfite group attacks the alpha-ether linkage of the phenolic structure, which is very effective in removing more lignin from the pulps. Both softwood and hardwood unbleached Kraft pulps were treated with sulfite solutions (pH 4.1 and 7.5 ) at 150 °C (90 minute) and 165°C for two time intervals (30 and 90 minutes) in the lab using autoclaves. Bisulfite treatment removed a significant amount of residual lignin over the neutral sulfite solution. We found that higher temperature (165°C) and higher time (90 minute) of reaction with bisulfite treatment is more effective in delignification (up to 28.32% lignin removal % from UBSWP , 40.4% from UBHWP) over the neutral sulfite treatment (25.26% from UBSWP, 28.22% from UBHWP), although resulted in higher yield% loss (80.66% yield% with bisulfite and 84.4% with neutral sulfite treatment for UBSWP and 77.32% with

Page 24 of 43 bisulfite and 84.7% with neutral sulfite treatment for UBHWP at 165°C after 90 minutes). The percent lignin removal was comparable for both softwood and hardwood pulps. The study proved that delignification and sulfonation is directly related to the phenolic hydroxyl group contents of the lignin. The reactivity of the lignin increased significantly by sulfite treatments and generated phenoxyl groups. The phenolic groups of the sulfonated pulp samples were found significantly higher than that of the untreated samples for both the softwood and hardwood samples. At the second stage, anthroquinone treatment of the sulfonated woodmeals showed further delignification of both the pulps, although resulted in further yield losses.

38. SAWTIMBER PROCUREMENT PRESSURE AND SUSTAINED YIELD MANAGEMENT ON NON- INDUSTRIAL PRIVATE FORESTLANDS OF VERMONT’S NORTHERN FOREST

Maker NF and Germain RH Department of Forest and Natural Resources Management, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: not available

Abstract: Non-industrial private forestlands (NIPF) make up the majority of forestlands in the Northern Forest. Management trends on NIPF therefore have broad implications for the whole of the region. To create a sustainable Northern Forest we must better understand those factors that influence forest management on NIPF. Harvesting decisions are closely tied to regional sawtimber markets. There is no empirical evidence, however, to show the effects of sawtimber demand on the sustainability of forest management in the region. This study builds on recently published geospatial data of saw log procurement pressure across the Northern Forest to explore the relationship between procurement pressure and sustained yield management on NIPF. Field measurements will be made on approximately 90 recently harvested NIPF properties with 25 acres or more of forestland across a four-county area of Vermont that is within the Northern Forest. Forest stocking and Acceptable Management Practices will be evaluated to determine the extent of sustained yield management used on each property and procurement pressure will be determined based on the location of each property. The management trends that are described will help forest managers, outreach personnel, and policy makers to promote and facilitate sustainable use of the Northern Forest.

39. FEEDING HABITS OF POECILIA ELEGANS (PISCES: POECILIIDAE) IN THE MASIPEDRO RIVER, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Marmolejo Hernández A1, Ortíz Arias RO2, Rodríguez Peña CM2, and Bastardo Landrau RH2 1Department of Environmental and Forest Biology, SUNY ESF, 2Department of Biology, Autonomous University of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-2 pm

Abstract: We studied the diet of Poecilia elegans Trewavas, 1948 (Cyprinodontiformes: Poeciliidae) by analysing the digestive tract of 27 specimens collected in the Masipedro river, Monseñor Nouel Province, Dominican Republic, from January to July of 2006. The composition of the digestive tract contents was expressed as frequency and occurrence numbers, with an intestinal index. The results of the analysis indicate that this fish feeds on a variety of taxa, mostly aquatic insects such as Ephemeroptera, Trichoptera, Diptera, and Hymenoptera; among them, the Chironomidae family

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(Diptera) is the most important part in their diet. Incidental elements in their diet include Bacillariophyta, mites, and gravel. Food similarities among adult males and females is more likely that between them and juveniles. Due to the contents, it can be inferred that P. elegans is a secondary consumer and a detritivore, with euriphagic diet, with generalist and opportunist behavior, preferring mainly insects.

40. PRODUCTION OF BIOFUEL AND HYDROGEN BY ELECTROCHEMICAL REFORMATION OF BIO- DERIVED LEVULILIC ACID

Ming YL, Yuan Y, Tanenbaum S, and Cabasso I Department of Chemistry, Polymer Research, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 1-2 pm

Abstract: Levulinic acid (LA) is generated from biomass (mainly from paper industry as waste by- product.) has a great potential to be utilized as an industry platform material. Converting carbon-based biomass into fuel via thermochemical and biological processes has been shown to be effective in a limited way. A new method has been developed to produce fuel from levulinic acid by an electroorganic synthesis method which employs the most economic and clean reagent, the electron. In this study, LA has been converted into 2,7-octanedione (diketone) by electrosynthesis (Kolbe reaction) using Pt electrodes. At the same time a stoichiometric amount of hydrogen (a clean energy source) is generated at cathode. The electroorganic synthesis is conducted in methanol/water mixture solvent. The results show only diketone is produced when using pure methanol as a solvent. However, when methanol/water mixture used as a solvent, a second product, triketone, is found. As water content increases in the solvent, the ratio of triketone and diketone increase linearly. The electrosynthesis is also conducted using LA with a series carboxylic acid (such as butyric acid, hexanoic acid) to produce aliphatic ketones. The products (ketones) of electrosynthesis are further deoxygenated into alkanes. The yields of the ketones are between 50 ~92%. The current efficiency for the electrolysis reaches 60 ~ 82 %. All the products have been identified by GC-MS, 1H, 13C, and 2-D NMR (COSY, HSQC and HMBC).

41. SEDIMENTATION OF HIGHLY REFINED PULP

Mishra G, Doelle K, and Ramarao BV SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-1 pm

Abstract: Need of filler-fine composite as a sustainable filler material and increased use of secondary fiber necessitates a method to characterize highly refined pulp i.e. fine. The increase of filler content and secondary fiber in paper has been driven by many factors involving cost, competition, quality and sustainability. However, as filler and secondary fiber loading is increased paper strengths, bulk, stiffness; all decreased. Fine characteristics impact processing, such as, drainage, dewatering, wet pressing and drying. It also determines the performance of paper, additives, retention aids, adsorption etc. As fine characteristic has influence on various paper making processes, a method of describing fines is in demand. For highly refined pulps i.e. fine; freeness do not scale properly with properties (tensile etc.), SR or CSF may not have sufficient range to distinguish differently treated pulps. Over the year it has

Page 26 of 43 been realized that the quality of fines may be expressed in terms of basic material properties; like permeability and compressibility. Water permeation, filtration, centrifugation and sedimentation methods are the major methods people have been using to determine these basic material properties.

This study used compressibility as a means to characterize the highly refined pulp i.e. fine. The method used for this purpose is sedimentation. In sedimenting suspensions, we speak of the gel point φg. The gel point depends on initial consistency and characteristics of fine. Above this point, the suspension supports a compressive stress by showing a finite strain and the particles interact with each other through a variety of forces: bending elastic, friction etc. Consolidation of pulp suspensions and constitutive relationships to compressibility has been analyzed. The focus here is on the rheological parameters (Sw, vf, φg, m, n) to describe the system. The equilibrium sediment height technique has been used to determine compressibility

42. ANALYSIS OF THE SPATIAL PATTERN OF DEVELOPMENT IN WESTERN CONNECTICUT

Myers S and Hall M Departments of Environmental and Forest Biology and Environmental Science, SUNY-ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-2 pm

Abstract: Western Connecticut, containing the highly forested Highlands, contains a range of land development forms, from clustered urban to less contiguous exurban development. Understanding the factors that explain this continuum of development pattern is important for land use planning that aims to protect ecosystem services. We hypothesized that the spatial contiguity (i.e. clustering) of newly developed land is influenced by: 1) initial contiguity of development, 2) percentage of previously undeveloped land covered by new development, 3) distance from cities with a relatively large population (>100,000), 4) percentage of public land, 5) and median personal income in the area. To test these hypotheses we constructed a regression model of the spatial contiguity of new development (developed between 1985 and 2006) averaged within U.S. Census block groups (CBGs) as a function of the five explanatory variables also summarized per census block group. All explanatory variables were statistically significant with slope coefficients of the expected sign. Results indicate that: 1) CBGs of lower contiguity in 1985 exhibited lower contiguity of new development, 2) CBGs with a lower proportion of new development exhibited less clustering, 3) CBGs more distant from larger cities had lower contiguity of new development, 4) CBGs with a greater portion of public land had lower contiguity of new development, and 5) greater median income per CBG resulted in lower contiguity, and hence less clustered new development. Based on these results, lower development rates may result in less forest loss but greater landscape fragmentation potential per developed unit.

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43. REAL-TIME SENSING AND TIME-RESOLVED SAMPLING OF ORGANIC CHEMICALS IN ONONDAGA LAKE

Oakes RL, Croskrey JM, and Hassett JP Department of Chemistry, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-1:30 pm

Abstract: This research seeks to develop and deploy two buoy-borne systems that can generate real time data on the presence and concentrations of trace hydrophobic organic contaminants in Onondaga Lake. This project will demonstrate the ability of this device to identify contaminant sources or monitor the progress of remediation efforts. The data can also be used to determine the efficacy of partitioning models that predict the exchange of hydrophobic compounds between water bodies and the atmosphere. Hydrophobic compounds in the water will selectively diffuse into solvent-filled, semi- permeable membrane tubing suspended underneath the buoy. The extract will flow through an absorbance and fluorescence detector and into collection tubes so it can be further analyzed in the laboratory. Data will be collected continuously onboard the buoy and will be downloaded remotely from shore. Initially, two solvents, hexane and ethanol, will be compared for extraction efficiency. We expect that this new sampling method will reduce sample preparation time in the laboratory, reduce the volume of toxic solvents necessary for analysis, and dramatically increase the understanding of Onondaga Lake contaminants by generating time-resolved data. This poster will present preliminary data demonstrating the capabilities of the extraction cell and detectors before field deployment in the summer of 2010.

44. WATER AND HEAT FLUXES THROUGH A WILLOW-BASED EVAPOTRANSPIRATION LANDFILL COVER SYSTEM

Ofori D1, Daley DJ1, Volk T2, and Lautz L3 1Department of Environmental Resources and Forest Engineering, SUNY ESF, 2Department of Forest and Natural Resources Management, SUNY-ESF, 3Department of Earth Sciences, Syracuse University Visit this student next to their poster from: 12:30-1:30 pm

Abstract: The microclimate of a site is important in determining water consumption and transpiration rates of vegetation. When designing engineered ecosystems, vegetation can be used to modify the microclimate of a site and influence both the water and energy budget to achieve project goals. This study assessed water and heat fluxes of two willow varieties (S. miyabeana (9882-34) and S. purpurea (SX64)) during the first year of regrowth following coppicing. The willows are planted in soil-like amended waste near Syracuse, NY as part of a landfill cover system. Water and temperature profiles in the soil-plant-atmosphere continuum (SPAC) were measured as indicators of the effect of canopy and waste features on heat and water fluxes. ANOVA and correlation analyses showed water loss in the open and rough canopy (9882-34) was by plant transpiration and surface evaporation from amended waste. In contrast, water flux in the uniform- closed canopy (SX64) was mainly by plant transpiration while water loss in the un-vegetated (control) area was by soil evaporation. The one-dimensional Simultaneous Heat and Water (SHAW) model estimated soil moisture, air temperature and relative humidity in the SPAC. RRMSE between estimated and measured soil water content, soil temperature, air

Page 28 of 43 temperature and relative humidity in vegetated areas ranged from 17-24%, 8.6-14.7%, 7.8-20.7% and 8.2-12.6%, respectively. RRMSE for these parameters in the un-vegetated area were 18-28%, 9-14.3%, 6.3-8.3% and 4.9-13.6%, respectively.

45. MONITORING OF THE LAKE ONTARIO NEARSHORE USING REAL-TIME FLUORESCENCE

Pavlac MM1, Smith TT1, Thomas SP1, Boyer GL1, Makarewicz JC2, Lewis TW2, Edwards WJ3, Pennuto CM4, Basiliko CP4, and Atkinson JF5 1Department of Chemistry, SUNY ESF, 2SUNY-Brockport, 3Niagara University, 4Buffalo State University, 5 University at Buffalo Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-2 pm

Abstract: As part of the Lake Ontario Nearshore Nutrient Survey (LONNS) in 2008, continuous real-time monitoring was conducted in the nearshore waters bordering New York. A ferry-box composed of commercial fluorometers was deployed to map algal distribution and water quality parameters. Three different fluorometers, including the Turner Designs Algaewatch/Cyanowatch, the Hydrolab Sonde, and the BBE Fluoroprobe, measured algal distribution as indicated by chlorophyll and phycocyanin fluorescence. Additionally, water samples were collected for in-lab pigment extraction. Fluorescence measurements from all three fluorometers will be compared to extracted pigment values to determine which instrument is the most effective for nearshore monitoring. Ferry-box data will also be used to illustrate the temporal and spatial changes in algal distribution and physical data in the nearshore throughout the sampling season.

46. RECP'S - RAINSPLASH TESTING

Smith J1, Pullen A2 1Department of Wood Products Engineering, 2Landscape Architecture, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-1 pm

Abstract: Since the creation of our earth, the landscape has been ever-changing due to the displacement and relocation of soil particles that make up the landscape. The erosion of soil is a major concern for the development, maintenance, and sustainability of our landscape. Weather, specifically rain, is a major contributor to soil erosion. As raindrops strike soil surfaces, soil particles are dislodged, transported by sheet flow, and redeposited. One of the most effective ways of minimizing soil erosion is to provide ground cover. Ground covers, such as rolled erosion control products (RECPs), reduce the erosivity of raindrops by intercepting them, dissipating their energy before they reach the underlying soil. Although RECPs are widely used, engineers are often given little guidance on the selection of RECPs beyond maximum allowable slope, velocity, and shear stress. RECPs can vary significantly in basic index properties and overall field performance. Few studies have been conducted that relate basic index properties to laboratory or field performance. Further, few studies have been conducted that explore and evaluate the potential uses and beneficial properties of other natural fibers for use as RECPs.

A comparative laboratory bench-scale rainsplash study of existing natural-fiber RECPs (coconut, jute, straw, and wood excelsior) and non-traditional natural fibers (willow, hemp, flax) will be conducted to

Page 29 of 43 evaluate their ability to minimize soil erosion and enhance the growth of vegetation on soil slopes. The beneficial properties of natural fibers that contribute to their performance, such as their ability to absorb water, will be evaluated.

47. FOREST RECOVERY ON ABANDONED FARMS OF THE AÑASCO RIVER WATERSHED OF WESTERN PUERTO RICO

Quntero B Department of Forest and Natural Resources Management, SUNY ESF Advisor: Ruth Yanai Visit this student next to their poster from: 12:30-2 pm

Abstract: A shift in macroeconomic strategies, from an agricultural to a light industrial economy led to farm abandonment in the Añasco River Watershed of western Puerto Rico. Secondary forests have regenerated naturally in these abandoned farmlands. Species composition and forest structure were described for secondary forests at the Añasco River Watershed to assess tree community assemblage. Plots were randomly chosen from an age class map produced from aerial images taken in 1936, 1963, 1994, 2001 and 1978 land cover data. Tree vegetation was sampled to calculate basal area, species richness and Shannon-Weiner diversity index, which were used to assess forest structure. Non-Metric Multidimensional Scaling and Indicator Species Analysis were used to determine community assemblages. Significant differences were determined for forest structural characteristics for plots of the same age, but with different land use histories. Non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMS) determined distinct plant communities on abandoned coffee and coconut palm plantations, but not for abandoned sugar cane plantations. Timber tree species Guarea guidonia and Callophylum calaba were determined to be a community indicator species at the coffee plantation sites. Myrcia citrifolia, Annona glabra and Sabal causiarum, three rare tree species at the Añasco River Watershed, thought to be eliminated by deforestation, were identified at the study site. After centuries of intense agricultural practices and land manipulation, forest structure and species composition are recovering in these secondary forests of western Puerto Rico to levels similar of mature stands in the Luquillo Experimental Forest and in the Cordillera Central of Puerto Rico.

48. THE COMMUNITY BENEFITS OF DECONSTRUCTING THE HOUSES OF OAKLAND STREET

Rann M Department of Construction Management and Wood Products Engineering, SUNY ESF Advisor: Kenneth Tiss Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-1:30 pm

Abstract: SUNY ESF will build a dormitory that will be certified under the United States Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standard. This dormitory will house approximately 450 students adjacent to its campus on Oakland Street in Syracuse, NY. Another part of this project involves the demolition of the existing homes on Oakland Street. The south side of this street is lined with houses, mostly duplexes, which were built between 1920 and 1970. A majority of these homes are currently being used as housing for approximately 100 students who attend SUNY ESF

Page 30 of 43 or nearby Syracuse University. These houses are located within the project boundaries will need to come down. The method of removal of these homes is being discussed by various project stakeholders. The debate centers on whether to demolish or to deconstruct these structures. This project focuses on the possible benefits the community would enjoy if they are properly deconstructed instead of demolished and sent into the existing waste stream.

49. PLANT GROWTH AND WATER STRESS RESPONSE OF HYBRID WILLOW (SALIX SPP.) AMONG SITES AND YEARS IN CENTRAL NEW YORK

Schifman LA1, Stella JC1, Volk TA1, and Teece MA2 1Department of Forest and Natural Resources Management, 2Department of Chemistry, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 1-2 pm

Abstract: Short rotation willow can be applied to various settings, including biomass production and restoration projects. Quantifying plant stress due to water availability can help determine which variety is best-suited for different projects. Here we used stable carbon isotopes to assess variation in growth among four, three-year-old willow varieties planted in three sites, including a brownfield. The objectives of our study were to: (1) compare 13C values between the whole plant and its largest stem to test a cost-effective method for estimating whole-plant stress; (2) compare water use efficiency (assessed by 13C) of varieties among sites and assess whether variety rankings change with site productivity; and (3) assess changes in the relationship between above-ground productivity and water status over the three- 13 year growth rotation. The largest stem showed greater C enrichment than the whole plant (F1,70=4.36, p=0.04), indicating higher vulnerability to water stress. Interannual plant stress depended on plant varieties and sites (F6,72=2.73, p=0.02). Growing season precipitation patterns explained the greatest differences in plant stress among years for the two agricultural sites but not at the brownfield. Biomass production differed among varieties (F3,22=5.06, p=0.008), while site characteristics impacted variations in water stress (F2,22=7.57, p=0.003). We found that variety SX64, having the highest growth rate and overall greatest biomass production, is best-suited as a short-rotation crop in fertile settings. In contrast, variety 9871-31 was hardiest, able to maintain comparable growth along a wider stress and fertility gradient: This variety is most appropriate for stressful sites and those used for restoration and remediation.

50. INFLUENCE OF RAINFALL EVENTS AND WOOD LOG SIZES ON LEACHING OF COPPER FROM ALKALINE COPPER QUATERNARY TREATED WOOD

Shi S and Tao W Department of Environmental Resources Engineering, SUNY-ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12:30-2 pm

Abstract: Health-awareness and environmental concern have resulted in the phase-out of chromate copper arsenate (CCA) from wood preservatives in most residential applications in the US. Copper- based preservatives are formulated as replacements, such as alkaline copper quaternary (ACQ), but there are still environmental concerns including copper contamination of aquatic environments. The objective of this study is to evaluate copper’s leachability from ACQ-treated wood by collecting rainfall

Page 31 of 43 leachate from 4 different wood piles, all with a volume of 0.15 m3. The wood piles include newly ACQ- treated wood and untreated wood, each is built with red pine logs in two sizes (6"x6"x20" and 3"x3"x20"). Six rainfall leachate samples will be collected from the beginning to the end of each rainfall event from each wood pile, and analyzed for total metals and dissolved metals by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS). Leaching rate of copper will be evaluated for all rainfall events to investigate the different influences of rainfall frequencies, intensities, durations, and wood log sizes at a significance level of 0.05. Leachate samples will also be analyzed for pH, temperature, total dissolved solids, and chemical oxygen demand. Wood samples will be taken from surfaces exposing to rainfall under different conditions, and analyzed for metal concentrations at different depths by Laser Ablation- Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometer (LA-ICP-MS) to investigate the relationship between metal leaching rate and exposure conditions.

51. THE IMPACT OF MULTICOLLINEARITY ON SMALL SAMPLE HYDROLOGIC REGIONAL REGRESSION

Song P and Kroll CN Department of Environmental Resources and Forest Engineering, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12:30-1:30 pm

Abstract: In hydrologic applications, regional regression models can be employed to predict streamflow discharges at ungauged river sites. Watershed characteristics used as explanatory variables in these models are often highly correlated. In regression models, highly correlated explanatory variables causes a phenomenon typically referred to as multicollinearity, which produces unstable parameter estimators with inflated variances as well as other unfavorable properties. In addition, in hydrologic applications, sample sizes are small. Here we compare a number of different regression estimators that can be employed when multicollinearity is present: ordinary least squares, ordinary least squares with variance inflation factors to screen for multicollinearity, principal component regression, and partial least squares regression. Of interest is how well these methods perform under varying degrees of multicollinearity and sample sizes. Two experiments are performed to compare these estimators. The first is a Monte Carlo Simulation where synthetic data sets are generated with properties similar to that seen in hydrologic applications. The second is a delete-one cross validation where USGS streamflow sites in eastern United States are employed. For the delete-one cross validation experiment, watershed characteristics are generated using a GIS toolset and available raster grids of meteorologic, topographic, and geologic characteristics.

52. POTENTIAL DISCRIMINATION OF PHYTOPLANKTON ON THE BASIS OF THEIR PIGMENT SIGNATURES

Sullivan JM and Boyer GL Department of Chemistry, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-2 pm

Abstract: Cyanobacterial blooms in the Great Lakes are an emerging problem due to their production of neurotoxic and hepatotoxic compounds. To protect recreational and drinking waters, it would be beneficial to detect these organisms using in situ or autonomous techniques. Blooms of cyanobacteria

Page 32 of 43 can be discriminated from non-toxic green algal blooms by in situ fluorescence measurements (e.g. phycocyanin). However, it is more difficult to differentiate non-toxic cyanobacteria from toxic genera. Here we report on the use of carotenoid fingerprints as determined by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD) and the use of a liquid waveguide capillary cell (LWCC) to separate potentially toxic genera from non-toxic species. HPLC-DAD analysis of Microcystis indicated that the major accessory pigments were beta, beta-carotene, echinenone, and zeaxanthin. These pigments provide a fingerprint which was different from those obtained for other genera. This information is being used in a 1 m LWCC flow cell coupled with a DAD detector and processed with a similarity index to determine the taxonomic resolution of these optical fingerprints.

53. SWMM-BASED GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE ENHANCED STORM WATER MODELING

Sun N1, Myrna Hall M1, Daley D2, and Fernandez A3 1Department of Environmental Science, SUNY-ESF, 2Department of Environmental Resources and Forest Engineering, SUNY ESF, 3Syracuse Center of Excellence Visit this student next to their poster from: 12:30-1:30 pm

Abstract: The City of Syracuse has a combined sewer system that collects both stormwater runoff and sanitary wastewater in the same pipes. When heavy rain or snowmelt leads to an increased amount of stormwater, the combined flow of wastewater and stormwater can exceed the conveyance capacity of the combined sewer system and is discharged into Onondaga Lake. Promoting infiltration is one of the primary methods for reducing urban stormwater runoff and in turn to improve water quality in Onondaga Lake. Funded by Syracuse Center of Excellence, we conducted the field work measuring the field infiltration rate of on-site Flexi-pave™ (porous paving) and traditional paving, and a rain garden using the double-ring infiltrometer approach. The results presented that the infiltration rate of the Flexi- pave™ ranges from 829.85 to 1532.79 in/hr largely dependent on the permeability of the soil subgrade, while the rain garden ranges from 76.6 to 234.7 in/hr primarily dependent on the antecedent soil moisture condition. We also measured hourly surface temperature on Flexi-pave™ and traditional pavers. It was found that Flexi-pave™ had lower heat capacity although its surface temperature was higher than traditional pavers during the day. Funded by NSF-ULTRA grant, we are currently working on building a tool, which will be incorporated into Storm Water Management Model (SWMM) to estimate the stormwater runoff reduction resulting from proposed Green Infrastructure (GI) installation in the City of Syracuse.

54. MONITORING THERMAL STRATIFICATION IN ONEIDA LAKE

Thomas S1, Holeck K2, Mills E2, and Boyer G1 1Department of Chemistry, SUNY ESF, 2Cornell Biological Field Station at Shackleton Point Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-1 pm

Abstract: Oneida Lake is a shallow, eutrophic lake that is heavily influenced by weather patterns. Located on a east –west axis with an average depth of about 10m, the lake is readily mixed by the prevailing winds and generally considered to be not prone to stratification. In 2008 and 2009, we maintained a buoy located near the Cornell Biological Field Station at Shackleton Point equipped with a

Page 33 of 43 thermistor string to monitor for temperature stratification, along with dissolved oxygen probes at 1m and 10m. This information was collected hourly and coupled with additional water quality measurements such as pH and chlorophyll. This information was available to researchers and educators in real time through web access. Using this information, we were able to show that Oneida Lake stratified at least twice during the course of the summer. These stratification events were associated with changes in available oxygen between the surface and bottom waters. Dissolution of the stratification was generally linked to storm events. Robotic buoy-based monitoring is an effective tool for measuring stratification and potential anoxic events in this system. This information has important implications for fisheries and lake managers. This work was supported by the Great Lakes Observing System and Cornell’s Shackleton Point Biological Station.

55. TREE COMMUNITY DYNAMICS ON POWERLINE CORRIDORS COINCIDENT WITH GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE: IMPLICATIONS FOR FORESTRY PRACTICE IN NEW YORK STATE

Treyger AL and Nowak CA Department of Forest and Natural Resource Management, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-2 pm

Abstract: There is emerging evidence that on-going climate change is affecting species’ physiology, distribution and phenology. However, there are few studies that examine tree seedling response to climate change. Changes in tree species composition can be expected due to increasing temperatures, with subsequent effects on silvicultural and forest management strategies. In New York, it is relatively easy to create desired stands with appropriate management strategies; however, recent and future climatic trends may change our ability to ensure abundant and adequate regeneration of desired species’ number and abundance. This study’s objective was to examine changes in relative density of tree species’ assemblages on powerline corridors from 1975-2003 in New York State. Powerline corridors in New York are commonly surrounded by forests, which creates a constant seedling pressure within a perpetual old-field environment. This unique combination of factors allowed us to examine tree seedling establishment in a stable environment over a 28-year period, utilizing MANOVA as the primary statistical analysis. Tree species’ dynamics varied between two ecological divisions within New York over time, as well as between four provinces contained within two divisions. Northern pioneer species declined across the state over the past 28 years, while the southern pioneer species increased in the hot continental division. In the warm continental division, pine-hemlock assemblage increased in the northeastern mixed forest province, and aspen-birch increased in the Adirondack province. It appears that climate change may have some influence on dynamics in tree seedling composition that could affect future silviculture and forest management decisions and expectations.

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56. FACTORS DRIVING MERCURY CONCENTRATIONS IN SNAPPING TURTLES

Turnquist M and Schlaepfer MA Department of Environmental and Forest Biology, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-2 pm

Abstract: Mercury is a global pollutant that has deleterious impacts on ecosystems. Mercury deposited onto the landscape can be transformed into methyl mercury and bioaccumulate up the food chain in aquatic systems. Because of the dangers mercury possesses as a neurotoxin, many studies have sampled mercury concentrations in wildlife tissues, generally fish species such as perch, and subsequently correlated these with ecological variables. Here, we sampled mercury concentrations in snapping turtles (Chelydra serpentine) across New York. Snapping turtles were chosen as the target species because of their position in the food chain, long life-span, sedentary life style, and at times are consumed by humans. The objectives of this study were to test which landscape (watershed composition), water (e.g. pH), or turtle (e.g. size) characteristics correlated with mercury concentrations in snapping turtles. We also test whether soft tissue mercury levels correlated with scute (shell) levels. Turtles were non- lethally sampled from ten lakes and wetlands across New York to incorporate a range of ecosystem variables and water chemistry types. Body size and mercury levels were not significantly related. Mercury concentrations in muscle of approximately 38% of the turtles tested exceeded US EPA limits of 0.3µg/g. There was a strong positive non-linear relationship between tissue mercury levels and scute mercury, as scute concentrations were higher than muscle. Based on this study, mercury levels are varied across New York, and mercury concentrations in turtles are highly dependent on the lake the animal is from.

57. HOT-WATER EXTRACTION OF ASPEN WOODCHIPS

Wang Y and Liu S Departments of Paper and Bioprocess Engineering, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-2 pm

Abstract: Starting from a wood-based biorefinery, the objective of this task is to study the kinetics of aspen wood extracts during hot-water extraction. When wood is subject to hot-water extraction at different temperatures (140 C, 150 C and 160 C) and different wood to liquor ratios (1:4, 1:5, 1:6, 1:7 and 1:8), extractives, hemicelluloses and other components leach out into the extraction liquor. Woody biomass can be leached out while the wood chips still remain rigid and maintains traditional utilities. The wood extracts can be fractionated for platform chemicals such as monosaccharides, acetic acid, methanol, furfurals, oligosaccharides and polysaccharides. Xylo-oligomers were the predominant component in wood extracts. Xylan initially dissolved as oligosaccharides and then depolymerized into xylose. NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) 600 MHZ spectrometer can be employed to accomplish the analysis and concentration tasks. It has been found that the concentration of several major components have certain diversification trends, which were discussed in detail. The optimal condition of this study was that the wood to liquor ratio was 1:4 at 160 C for 90 minutes, the xylose concentration was 10.42 g/L.

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58. BIOLOGICAL NITROGEN REMOVAL IN CONSTRUCTED WETLANDS USING NITRITATION AND ANAMMOX PROCESS

Wen J and Tao W Department of Environmental Resources and Forest Engineering, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-2 pm

Abstract: Conventionally, nitrogen removal is achieved by nitrification and denitrification process. Recently, partial nitrification (nitritation) and anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox) are integrated in one-reactor or two-reactor processes to remove nitrogen from high-ammonia wastewaters. Compared to conventional nitrification-denitrification process, the combination of nitritation and anammox reduces 60% oxygen demand, and no organic carbon addition is required. Two vertical flow constructed wetlands packed with marble chips and mini marble chips respectively were operated to integrate nitritation and anammox in single constructed wetlands. The effects of influent nitrite concentration, marble chip size, and hydraulic retention time on integration of nitritation and anammox were examined. The two constructed wetlands were operated for 345 days. The results suggested that the nitritation-anammox process was improved in the constructed wetlands at lower nitrite-N concentrations and a shorter hydraulic retention time (2 d). No significant difference in total nitrogen removal was identified between the two constructed wetlands that were packed with different sizes of marble chips. This insignificant difference was confirmed by scanning electron microscopic images showing scattered biofilms attached to the marble chips. Further research will focus on other parameters to identify optimum operational conditions to promote the integration of nitritation and anammox as well as to improve nitrogen conversion rate. Three recirculating subsurface vertical flow constructed wetlands with unsaturated zones and slag layers were built in ESF greenhouse, and are operated to assess the effects of pH and depths of unsaturated zones on the development of the nitritation-anammox process in single constructed wetlands.

59. CORAL FEEDING STRATEGIES AS A FUNCTION OF REEF ENVIRONMENT IN THE FLORIDA KEYS

Wurzel W1, Teece M2, and Lirman D3 1 Graduate Program in Environmental Science, SUNY ESF, 2 Department of Environmental Chemistry, SUNY ESF, 3University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine & Atmospheric Science Visit this student next to their poster from: 1-2 pm

Abstract: Coral reefs are some of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet. They also provide humanity with resources annually worth billions. At the foundation of these systems is the coral. A coral is a plant (zooxanthellae) and an animal living symbiotically together. The animal host is capable of feeding in one of two ways. Either it is an herbivore, getting its nutrients from the photosynthesizing symbiotic plants, or it is a carnivore, filter feeding the water column like an anemone. Corals can get 100% of their required nutrients from their zooxanthellae, but there are many more benefits to filter feeding such as faster growth, higher rates of photosynthesis and more stores of protein. Using bulk isotope analysis it is possible to figure out whether a coral is feeding as an herbivore or carnivore. I analyzed two coral species (Porites astreoides and Montastrea faveolata) from different coral reef environments (onshore vs. offshore). These environments differ in light intensity, food availability and

Page 36 of 43 nutrients in the water column. The results show a need for compound specific isotope analysis as the bulk isotopes show contradicting relationships between coral and prey. In light of the expected consequences of global climate change, where a coral lives may influence its ability to adapt and survive. If carnivorous corals can grow faster, photosynthesize faster and store more proteins, then maybe they can survive warmer ocean temperatures, ocean acidification and sea level rise better than corals that are herbivorous.

60. DEVELOPING CONFIDENCE METRICS FOR REMOTE SENSING CLASSIFICATION

Xi B and Mountrakis G Department of Environmental Resources and Forest Engineering, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12:30-2 pm

Abstract: Remote sensing is an important tool for many studies where the physical and human environment interact each other. Therefore, land uses obtained from classification of remote sensing imagery provide valuable information in examining environmental issues. The accuracy of remote sensing classification examines the degree of “correctness” of the output classification map. Numerous methods have been discussed in the literature offering different viewpoints on accuracy assessment. Our work concentrated on developing confidence metrics, metrics that express the likelihood that the identified accuracy will be applicable to a new dataset.

Our methodology compared the amount of data used in the training process with the multidimensional footprint of a new simulation point. We used spatial statistics as applied to the multi-dimensional input space (i.e. the image spectral bands) to compare the observed number of training data used within a neighborhood versus the expected number from a homogenous distribution. The number of points that falling within the neighborhood indicated that how much confidence we can have to label this pixel to a certain class. The approach relies only on the training dataset and is independent of the classification method used, therefore researchers can easily complement classification accuracy results with confidence metrics.

61. ASSESSING SPATIAL UNIQUENESS OF FOREST CHANGES IN THE CONTERMINOUS US

Yang S and Mountrakis G Departments of Environmental Science and Environmental Resources and Forest Engineering, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 1-2 pm

Abstract: Forest changes at large spatial and temporal scales can be analyzed effectively using remotely sensed data and geostatistical techniques. In our work we introduce a metric using distance to closest forest as an indicator for qualitative assessment of forest changes. We use the National Land Cover Database 1992/2001 Retrofit Land Cover Change Product to create two binary maps of forest distributions in the conterminous U.S. in 1992 and 2001. These maps are resampled to lower resolution to eliminate noise and isolated forest pixels. Two maps are generated to display distributions of forest area changes and forest distance changes around the conterminous U.S. Furthermore, a Ripley K function is applied for both forest area changes and forest distance changes to conduct more advanced

Page 37 of 43 spatial analysis. The results reveal interesting patterns of forest cover changes during the 1990s. We expect our new indicator using forest distance will provide a better understanding of forest cover changes and guide forest management decisions.

62. APPLICATION OF A SINGLE PARAMETER HYDROGRAPH EQUATION IN AN URBAN HYDROLOGY MODEL

Yang Y and Endreny TA Departments of Environmental Science and Environmental Resources and Forest Engineering, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-2 pm

Abstract: Hydrographs are graphs of river discharge with time, and during rainfall events, they typically rise to a peak flow, and then recede toward base flow. Hydrology models may use a variety of hydrograph equations, including the unit-hydrograph and time-area methods may use more than 15 parameters and are cumbersome in model calibration. We coded a recently developed single parameter hydrograph equation into the UFORE-Hydro urban hydrology model and tested its predictive power compared with a 16 parameter time-area method. The single parameter hydrograph is based on Darcy’s law, using an exponential function with a single basin time constant parameter, b. It has accurately predicted hydrograph rise, peak flow, total flow volume, and recession rates in limited earlier tests. More complicated tests were performed with the UFORE-Hydro model, which uses the TOPMODEL theory to generate a unit depth of effective precipitation. We applied the two versions of the UFORE- Hydro model to the Pond Branch watershed in Baltimore, MD, one version with the time-area hydrograph, one with the single-parameter hydrograph. Model performance was quantified with the Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) parameter, which compares observed and predicted hydrographs, and NSE values near 1 indicate better predictions. Based on simulations of the entire 2007 water year, the time-area hydrograph approach obtained NSE values of 0.5, and the single-parameter hydrograph obtained NSE values of 0.63. The single parameter hydrograph provides greater calibration efficiency as well, and the results of this work will be more rigorously tested in subsequent model runs for a wider range of watersheds.

63. IMPROVED ROUTING METHOD FOR UFORE-HYDRO MODEL

Yang Y and Endreny TA Departments of Environmental Resources and Forest Engineering, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-2 pm

Abstract: Great effort has been directed toward the development of hydrology models for stream flow prediction. TOPMODEL (a TOPography based hydrological MODEL) has been the subject of numerous applications to a wide variety of catchments. It is appropriate in small, humid and homogeneous watershed in which saturation excess overland flow dominates. UFORE-Hydro Model incorporated the hydrologic concepts developed in the original version of TOPMODEL, and extended the model on subsurface flow and saturation-excess overland flow processes. UFORE-Hydro Model was developed by Prof.Endreny and his former PhD student Jun Wang, and has been maintaining by USDA Forest Service

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Northern research station. It has been using in both operational hydrology and water resources management issues.

UFORE-Hydro model applied a distance related delay to surface flow. The whole watershed is divided to 16 parts according to the ‘distance’ to the outlet, then the 16 distances are calibrated to get the best fit. It always takes long computer time and brings complexity to the calibration process. A new hydrograph predicting method, which is based on Dacy’s law and the diffusion equation and using a single free parameter, the basin time constant b, has been applied into routing process of UFORE-Hydro. The calibration procedure is simplified and the simulation result is improved. The Nash-Sutcliffe criteria for Pond Branch watershed in Baltimore for water year 2007 is 0.63 compared 0.5 by the pervious distance routing delay method.

64. MEASURING AMENITY BENEFITS FROM URBAN OPEN SPACE: A HEDONIC APPROACH

Yoo S1, Wagner JE2, McPeak J3, Wilcoxen P3, and Zhang L2 1Department of Environmental Studies, SUNY ESF, 2Department of Forest and Natural Resources management, SUNY ESF, 3Department of Public Administration, Syracuse University Visit this student next to their poster from: 1-2 pm

Abstract: This study evaluated how urban residents value the spatial patterns of open space in their neighborhood. Amenity values of open space were measured using a hedonic method. This study considered how the value of open space amenities in urban area vary not only with traditional hedonic variables explaining structure and neighborhood characteristics of properties, i.e. number of bedrooms, population density, but also with spatial variables including accessibility to open space, size of the open space, percent of surrounding each open space land use type and landscape ecological index which represent neighboring land use pattern. By investigating these effects, this study explored whether the accessibility to and the size of the open space affects the residential property values, whether different surrounding land use patterns generate different amenities to residential property, and whether before and after the event of land use change affects the property value. This study is being conducted based on the house transactions in Onondaga County, NY from January 2000 to December 2000. Results of this study will be useful in the conservation and planning of urban open space, so it could perform its functions with minimum economic cost and conflicts.

65. EXTENSION AGENTS AS CHANGE AGENTS IN PROMOTING WOODY BIOMASS MANAGEMENT ON FAMILY FORESTS

Zajac LM and Germain R SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12:30-1:30 pm

Abstract: Understanding the issues associated with forest biomass as a source of renewable energy is becoming increasingly important. Participation by family forest owners in forest management for bioenergy is critical to ensure an adequate supply of woody feedstock to existing and planned bioenergy facilities. Extension agents play an important role in garnering this participation as they provide the

Page 39 of 43 knowledge and information needed by forest owners to make informed decisions. As such, a survey has been developed to identify the level of awareness and knowledge of professionals conducting extension and outreach to family forest owners regarding woody biomass and its use in energy production. The survey results will be used to develop educational materials and strategies for extension agents working with family forest owners.

66. CHANGES IN RIVER HYDRAULIC CIRCULATION WITH IN-CHANNEL RESTORATION STRUCTURES

Zhou T and Endreny T Department of Environmental Resources and Forest Engineering, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-1 pm

Abstract: River restoration often attempts to slow or stop lateral migration at meander bends by using in-channel restoration structures, such as vanes and J-hooks. This study examined how in-channel structures affect cross-stream circulations in both laboratory flume analysis and computer simulations. The laboratory experiments were conducted in a tilting flume with an 8-m working length, a 0.3-m width and 0.5-m height. A river geometrically-scaled point bar was placed in the flume to generate cross- stream circulation. Flow direction data were recorded in two treatments, with and without the restoration structure, using injected dye tracer to map cross-stream circulation paths. A computational fluid dynamic (CFD) code simulated these experimental designs. The flume and CFD results documented how the in-channel structure splits the cross-stream circulation at the point-bar and creates an additional cross-stream cell downstream of the structure. The impact distance and the size of the cross- stream cells depend on the dimension and the intrusion angle of the vane. Another CFD simulation represented a flume with a 1.7 m radius of curvature meander bend starting at 0° and extending until 193° with a fixed bed, point-bar channel with an average 0.15m flow depth. The model quantified the hydraulic impacts of a j-hook vane originating at the meander apex. Results confirmed the j-hook vane significantly changed the cross-channel circulation patterns, 1) splitting circulation into 2 cells with opposite flow directions at surface and bottom of the channel, and 2) weakening the cross-channel circulation strength at the outer bank downstream of the j-hook vane, which can reduce the outer bank erosion.

67. EVALUATING A NOVEL MULTI-SCALE RADIAL BASIS FUNCTION NETWORK IN IMAGE CLASSIFICATION

Zhuang W and Mountrakis G Departments of Environmental Science and Environmental Resources and Forest Engineering, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 1-2 pm

Abstract: This study investigated the application of a multi-scale radial basis function (MSRBF) network, which used appropriate multi-dimensional Sigmoidal functions in order to classify an image. The novelty of the proposed MSRBF network relied on the incorporation of both global and local statistics in the selection of winning nodes. In global scale, we calculated the Classification Accuracy (CA) using all the points of the dataset, while in local scale points located within a neighborhood were selected. The neighborhood was identified based on the operating input space of the radial basis function under

Page 40 of 43 consideration. After global and local CAs were calculated a designed filter is applied to select the appropriate winning node. A genetic algorithm was applied to obtain the optimal parameters for the kernel functions associated with the nodes in the hidden layer of the MSRBF network. We demonstrated the applicability of the MSRBF in an image classification task.

68-69 (oversized). SPATIAL PATTERNS OF SUSPENDED SOLIDS DEPOSITION IN ONONDAGA LAKE

Hurteau CA1,2, Matthews DA1, and Effler SW1 1Upstate Freshwater Institute, Syracuse, New York, 2Department of Environmental Science, SUNY ESF Visit this student next to their poster from: 1:20-2 pm

Abstract: Spatial and temporal patterns in deposition of suspended solids in Onondaga Lake N.Y., including affects of resuspension and transport of particles from a nearshore industrial waste deposit, were investigated using an array of sediment traps extending away from the in-lake waste deposit (ILWD), along with trap deployments in both the north and south basin. There was a distinct decreasing trend in total solids deposition as distance from the ILWD increased. Additionally, relative contributions of inorganic particles increased approaching the ILWD. Both of these findings suggest the transport of resuspended particles to the depositional zone of the lake. A major runoff event in August of 2009 coincided with a substantial increase in deposition, indicating both wind driven resuspension and runoff events can contribute to the temporal and spatial patterns in deposition. There was a shift in particle composition during runoff events, which resulted in a 25% reduction in the relative contribution of calcium to deposited material as compared to dry weather periods. Since ILWD sediments have been found to be enriched in calcium containing particles, the shift in particle composition suggests the relative contribution of allochthonous particles to deposition increased during runoff events. Deposition in the north basin of the lake was 27% lower than deposition in the south basin, and is attributed to the south basin receiving the dominant portion of nutrients and allochthonous particles.

Class Project Posters

70. ONONDAGA COUNTY SOLID WASTE CARBON FOOTPRINT

Doty CD1, Jones EB2, Kukko T3, McAnaney BJ3, Wachob LA3 1Department of Environmental Resource and Forest Engineering, 2Department of Forest and Natural Resource Management, 3Department of Environmental Science, SUNY ESF Class: EST 627 Advisor: Richard Smarden Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-2 pm

Abstract: The purpose of this project is to determine the greenhouse gas emissions due to solid waste produced by Onondaga County facilities. By obtaining the tonnage and composition data for solid waste, which consists of combustible and recyclable waste, the greenhouse gas emissions will be calculated and the information may be used to help Onondaga County formulate a climate action plan.

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Garbage in Onondaga County is sent to Covanta to be burned in a waste-to-energy incinerator. This analysis will include both direct and indirect emissions, coming from combustion and energy used in the process of recycling, respectively. Emissions will be calculated in CO2 equivalents for the six most common greenhouse gases: CO2, H2O(g), NO2, SO2, CH4, and CO. After obtaining CO2 equivalents, we will suggest areas in which Onondaga County can reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. Lastly, we will analyze historical solid waste generation patterns in Onondaga County in order to predict future carbon emissions.

71. ONONDAGA COUNTY FACILITY AND BUILDING GHG EMISSION AUDIT

Maurer A1, Djandoh A1, Ames M1, Dorr A1, and DiMezza A2 1Department of Environmental Studies, 2Department of Environmental and Forest Biology, SUNY-ESF Class: EST 627 Advisor: Richard Smarden Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-2 pm

Abstract: Onondaga County has become increasingly concerned with the impact of their activities on climate change. To better understand the county's impact on climate change, an accurate measurement of their Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions is necessary. In assisting Onondaga County with this task, our first objective was to collect data on energy and electricity usage in all county facilities including landscape maintenance, traffic lights and signals. Our second objective was to establish a system for data collection to streamline future inventories. Finally, we intended to make some basic recommendations to assist Onondaga County in reducing their carbon footprint. Using 2008 as the base year, data on energy and electricity consumption for all county facilities and buildings was inputted into the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) software to compute the GHG emissions. The ICLEI software results show that the county's GHGs (CO2, HCFC, CH4, etc.) emissions exceeded the recommended threshold set by the City for Climate Protection/Sustainable City Initiative. In order to reduce energy consumption and GHG emissions, we recommended that Onondaga County; implement simple efficiency measures and conservation practices, invest in renewable and cleaner energy sources, and establish a systematic approach to record scope 3 emissions in order to more accurately measure their GHG emissions.

72. CITY OF ITHACA 2009 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSION INVENTORY

Vormwald S Department of Environmental Science, SUNY ESF Class: EST 627 Advisor: Richard Smarden Visit this student next to their poster from: 12-1 pm

Abstract: A greenhouse gas emission inventory for the calendar year 2009 was conducted on behalf of the City of Ithaca, New York. Electricity, natural gas, and vehicle fuel usage data was collected from New York State Electric and Gas utility accounts, and the Department of Public Works supply manager. This data was aggregated and entered into the ICLEI Clean Air Climate Protection 2009 Software in order to calculate greenhouse gas emissions. Emissions from City facilities, street lights, vehicle fuel, drinking water processes, wastewater treatment, and total emissions were calculated. Although final results are

Page 42 of 43 not yet available, total greenhouse gas emissions are expected to have declined slightly from 2008 emissions. 2009 emissions are expected to be approximately 15% below 2001 baseline emissions, which would demonstrate progress toward the City’s Local Action Plan goal of 20% below 2001 levels by 2016.

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