Long-term patterns and drivers of trace and ultratrace elements in boreal streams

NSF Award Search · 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT · $812,484 · view on nsf.gov ↗

Abstract

Human activities and global changes alter the movement of elements from the atmosphere to land and ultimately into streams, particularly in northern latitude regions. However, there is limited understanding of how altered environmental conditions impact trace element movement. Even though some trace elements form essential nutrients, others are toxic to humans and wildlife. Therefore, determining long-term patterns in these elements is important to understand their human and ecosystem health impacts. This project will examine long-term patterns of trace elements in streamwater, quantify trends in their concentration, identify the associated drivers, and predict how the concentrations will vary in the future. The results will inform management and mitigation of trace elements in boreal streams. The project will develop curriculum modules for high school students and incorporate them into a high school summer program, focusing on hands-on experience and connecting basic science to real-world problem-solving. Project personnel will participate in outreach activities involving stakeholders and students, train undergraduate and graduate students, and disseminate key outcomes through articles in the popular press. The overarching goal of the project is to understand how shifting environmental processes impact the fate and transport of contaminants now and in the future. This will be achieved by examining the primary drivers and patterns of sixty trace and ultratrace elements wit

Key facts

NSF award ID
2529760
Awardee
Cornell University (NY)
SAM.gov UEI
G56PUALJ3KT5
PI
Jacqueline Gerson
Primary program
01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
All programs
SWEDEN
Estimated total
$812,484
Funds obligated
$812,484
Transaction type
Standard Grant
Period
08/15/2025 → 07/31/2028