BEMIDJI — Six students from Bemidji State University's حلحلآ» of Sustainability and Life Sciences traveled to Pittsburgh this spring to share original research at the National Conference on Undergraduate Research. The event was held April 6–9 at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.
Four students presented poster projects focused on groundwater flow in the Shingobee River Watershed, a long-term research site near Akeley supported through a partnership between BSU and the University of Minnesota. The work is led by Dr. Miriam Rios-Sanchez, associate professor and graduate advisor.
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Ashley Crowl and Jordyn Harvey presented findings on aquifer layers and hydraulic properties of glacial aquifers. Their work identified multiple shallow and deep layers made up of sand and gravel, with evidence of vertical water flow and connections to nearby lakes and rivers. Mikenna Pattrin also contributed to the project but did not attend the conference.
Sienna Houle and Parker Young presented research analyzing how aquifers respond to rainfall. Using 13 years of data, they found that both shallow and deep groundwater levels react to precipitation, though at different speeds and intensities. Their study confirmed that groundwater in the watershed flows toward Shingobee Lake.
Both projects are part of a broader research initiative led by Trevor Wozniak, a master's student in environmental science. His graduate work uses environmental isotopes to study groundwater age and support future water management. Wozniak also mentors undergraduate researchers and attended the event.
Also attending was Jerome Johnson, a BSU student scholar with the North Star STEM Alliance, who participated to explore STEM-related research and connect with peers.
Hosted annually, the provides students with opportunities to present work, network with fellow researchers and explore academic and career pathways.
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