# NSF-SNSF: Hydrology from Genes: Resolving snow and ice contributions to streamflow using environmental DNA (eDNA)

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Oregon State University (OR) · $439,997

## Abstract

Hydrologic changes, such as shifting precipitation patterns and changing storage in glaciers, snowpacks, groundwater, and soils makes it increasingly complex to forecast water availability. These changes also make it challenging to accurately quantify water flow and storage. Water tracers are commonly used to determine sources of water based on field measurements. Current water tracers, such as ions and isotopes, are often limited in their ability to distinguish between water sources or pathways, especially when the underlying geologic materials are similar. This project will explore the potential for DNA-derived tracers to overcome these limitations in watersheds where snow and ice are major water sources. The main objective of this research is to establish DNA-derived tracers as a reliable tool for hydrologists to better understand how water flow and storage in catchments is influenced by snow and ice, providing new insights where traditional tracers fall short. By providing more precise tools to assess water flow and storage, this research advances knowledge in both hydrology and environmental DNA tracing, with cross-disciplinary applications in environmental monitoring and biodiversity analysis. The project will benefit society by improving water management strategies in climate-sensitive regions, supporting biodiversity conservation efforts, and contributing to climate change adaptation policies. 

This bi-lateral international project examines water sources and flow p

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2501398
- **Awardee organization:** Oregon State University (OR)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** MZ4DYXE1SL98
- **PI:** Stephen P Good
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** INTERDISCIPLINARY PROPOSALS, SWITZERLAND, International Partnerships
- **Estimated total:** $439,997
- **Funds obligated:** $439,997
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/01/2025 → 08/31/2029

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2501398

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2501398, NSF-SNSF: Hydrology from Genes: Resolving snow and ice contributions to streamflow using environmental DNA (eDNA). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-07 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2501398. Licensed CC0.

---

*[NSF Awards dataset](/datasets/nsf-awards) · CC0 1.0*