Agricultural runoff is playing an increasing role in the health of Lake Erie, with rising nutrients fueling the growth of harmful algal blooms.

Master of Science in Environmental and Life Sciences student Carolina Koebel '19 (Champlain College) is at the forefront of investigating these effects alongside Canada Research Chair in Global Change of Aquatic Ecosystems at Trent University, Dr. Maggie Xenopoulos, a leading expert in organic content in freshwater and studies of the Great Lakes.

“While these algae blooms are not a new phenomenon, they are becoming more frequent and intense due to nutrient runoff from farming operations,” says Carolina. “My research studies how nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations shape freshwater ecosystems, as they play a dual role in both stimulating algal growth and triggering the production of harmful toxins, such as microcystin created by cyanobacteria.”

Carolina’s research examines the role of nitrogen and phosphorus in the processes of algal growth and toxin production as a result of agricultural runoff, such as manure. By focusing on nitrogen's role, she aims to distinguish between these processes, providing insights that can help water treatment plants better predict and respond to cyanobacterial toxicity events, ultimately improving water management and protecting public health.

Both Carolina and Professor Xenopoulos attended the American Geophysical Union (AGU) conference in December, which is a major event in the field of geoscience attended by 30,000 researchers from around the world.

At the conference, Carolina presented findings on the connections between nitrogen, phosphorus and algae blooms to win an Outstanding Student Presentation Award. Prof. Xenopoulos  also became the first Canadian to receive the AGU’s William Kaula Award at the conference for her work fostering inclusion in scientific publishing. “Working alongside a Canada Research Chair like Prof. Xenopoulos has enhanced the impact of my work and depth of my learning. Her expertise and mentorship have been invaluable, and to win my award at the same event where she received the William Kaula Award makes it even more special,” says Carolina.

With ongoing collaborations and cutting-edge research, Trent continues to be a hub for freshwater science, equipping students like Carolina to make their mark.

“Trent’s natural setting along the Otonabee River and interdisciplinary opportunities made it the obvious choice to explore environmental science,” says Carolina. “The chance to work on real-world problems in such a research-focused environment has prepared me for what I expect to be a rewarding science career.”

Learn more about Trent’s Environmental and Life Sciences graduate program.