Curriculum Vitae

Alison L. Spongberg

 

Professor of Geology                                                    Phone: (419) 530-4091

Department of Environmental Sciences, M.S. 604                                

University of Toledo                                                     Fax: (419) 530-4421

Toledo, Ohio 43606-3390                                           e-mail: aspongb@utnet.utoledo.edu                                          

Year of appointment to University of Toledo: September, 1994 as Assistant Professor

Year of Promotion: 2008

 

 

Education:

 

May, 1994.  Doctorate in Philosophy in Soils and Crop Sciences, Soil Physics, Texas A & M University, College Station, TX. 

Dissertation title: Volatilization of Hazardous Compounds During Composting of K061 API Separator Sludge

Research funded by Gulf Coast Hazardous Substance Control Board.

Agronomy honor society.  Regents Fellow.  Tom Slick Fellow.  Minor in Statistics.

May, 1979.  Master of Arts in Geology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA.

Thesis title: Chemistry and Mineralogy of Precambrian Paleosols at Elliot Lake, Ontario, Canada.

June, 1976.  Bachelor of Arts in Geology, Ohio Wesleyan University, Delaware, Ohio.     

Kappa Delta Pi Honor Society.

 

 

Work Experience:

 

September 1994 – present: Professor, The Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Toledo, Toledo, Ohio.

            Currently supervise one grant-funded research technician in my research lab.

Developed the current environmental geochemistry research and soil science programs.  Designed new courses in Environmental Geochemistry, Biogeochemistry, Soil Science, Hazardous Waste Management, Environmental Analytical Techniques, and Contaminant Hydrogeology.  Educational programs developed include distance learning Earth System Science, and hands-on Physical Geology (NOVA) courses.

June, 1980 - August, 1991.  Chevron Oil Company / Gulf Oil Company:

            Houston Technical Services Center, Houston, Texas

            Gulf Exploration and Production Co., Bakersfield, California

            Chevron Oil Field Research Company, La Habra, California

            Chevron Exploration and Production Company, Houston, Texas

Research Geochemist, Exploration Geologist, Clastic Stratigrapher, Project Coordinator.  Responsibilities included Initiation, Design, Quality-control, and Interpretation of projects in Research, Exploration, and Development Geochemistry and Geology.  Geochemical exploration for petroleum using surface methods; Fingerprinting petroleum; Reservoir characterization; Pool separation using organic and inorganic techniques on sediments and fluids; Geochemical response of hydrocarbons to waterflooding; Geochemical consultant and instructor for area field offices; Evaluation of contractor data; Electric log and seismic interpretation.  Supervisor of exploration/development group of eight professionals.

March, 1979 - June, 1980.  Aero Services Company, Houston, Texas. Geophysicist.

Responsibilities included Geophysical interpretation of aeromagnetic data and scientific computer programming.

 

 

Publications: (* denotes refereed journals)

*(In review)  Derksen, R., Z. Heping, H. Ozkan, R. Hammond, A. Dorrance and A.L. Spongberg.  Determining the influence of spray quality, nozzle type, spray volume and air-assisted application strategies on deposition of pesticides in soybean canopy.  Submitted to the Transactions of the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers, July 17, 2008.

*(Accepted) Wu, Chenxi, A.L. Spongberg and J.D. Witter.  Streamlined solid phase extraction and liquid chromatograph-tandem mass spectrometry method for simultaneous determination of various pharmaceuticals in surface water. Submitted to the International Journal of Environmental Analytical Chemistry, March, 2008.

*(Accepted, 5/2008) Wu, Chenxi, A.L. Spongberg and J. D. Witter.  Determination of the persistence of pharmaceuticals in biosolids using liquid-chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Chemosphere.

*(Accepted, 11/2007) Spongberg, A.L. L. Hartley, D. Neher and J. Witter. Phyto-mobilization of heavy metals at the Fostoria Waste Water Treatment Plant.  Journal of Contaminated Sediments. 

*Spongberg, A.L. and J. Witter, 2008 Pharmaceutical compounds in wastewater treatment plant influent, effluent and sludge from Northwest Ohio.  The Science of the Total Environment 397: 148-157.

* (Invited, Accepted) Spongberg, A.L. and J. Witter. A review of PCB data from Tropical Soils, Sediments and Marine Organisms.  Invited paper for the Journal of Tropical Biology. Submitted September 2007

Spongberg, A.L.  2007.  The Stormy Petrels of Maumee Bay Guide to the Stranahan  Arboretum, with Particular Reference to Trees in the 60 Stories (aka “The Canon”) of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes and Britain. www.eeescience.utoledo.edu/Faculty/Spongberg/als/Sherlockian_Arboretum_tour%20.pdf

* Witter J. A.L. Spongberg and K. Czajkowski. 2007 Diurnal Soil Temperature Effects and Data Representativeness in the GLOBE Program. Journal of Geography 106:13-19.

* Roberts, S., J. Gottgens, A.L. Spongberg, J. Evans, N. Levine 2007. Integrated Approach to Assessing Potential Dam Removals: An Example from the Ottawa River, NW Ohio. Environmental Management 39(1):113-124.

* Spongberg, A.L.  2006 Evaluation of PCB contaminant load in Sipunculan worms along the west coast of Costa Rica.  Journal of Tropical Biology 54, Supl. 1: 27-33.

* Spongberg, A.L. and E. Moebius 2006 Re-evaluation of the muck soils from the Scioto Marsh, Hardin Co., Ohio.  Ohio Journal of Science, 106: 181-185.

* Spongberg, A.L. 2004 Characterization of the PCB congeners in sediments of Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica. Journal of Tropical Biology 52 (Supl 2), p. 10-18.

* Spongberg, A.L.  2004 Characterization of the PCB congeners in sediments of Golfo de Nicoya, Costa Rica. Journal of Tropical Biology  52 (Supl 2) p. 19-29.

* Spongberg, A.L. 2004 An Initial Investigation of PCB Contamination in Surface Sediments in the Coastal Waters of Costa Rica. Journal of Tropical Biology 52(Supl 2), p. 1-9.

*Spongberg, A.L., J. Gottgens and B. Muller. 2003 Pesticide Accumulation Rates in a Northwestern Ohio Marsh.  Water, Air and Soil Pollution 152: 387-404.

*Blakely, J.K., Neher, D.A. and Spongberg, A.L., 2002. Microinvertebrate and microbial communities, and decomposition as indicators of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon contamination.  Applied Soil Ecology 21: 71-88.

*Spongberg, A.L. and G. Lou,. 2000. Pesticide Adsorption in Three Soils from Blue Creek Wetlands, Waterville, Ohio,  Science of Soils, 5:1.

*Spongberg, A.L. and P. Becks.  2000. Organic Contamination in Soils Associated with Cemeteries.  Journal of Soil Contamination 9(2):87-97.

*Spongberg, A.L. and P. Becks.  2000. Inorganic Soil Contamination from Cemetery Leachate.  Water, Air and Soil Pollution117:313-327.

*Spongberg, A.L. and P. Davis, 1999.  Preliminary Investigation of Pesticide Contamination in Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica.  Journal of Tropical Biology 46 (Suppl.5): 111-124.

*Tevesz, M. J. S., A. L. Spongberg, and J. A. Fuller, 1998.  Stable Carbon and Oxygen Isotope Record of Central Lake Erie Sediments, Journal of Paleolimnology 20 (3): 295-305.

*Spongberg, A. L. and J.M. Martin-Hayden, 1997. Pesticide stratification in an engineered wetland.  Environmental Science and Technology 31:3161-3165.

* Spongberg, A. L., J.C. Thomas, and K.W. Brown, 1996. Laboratory Scale In-vessel Composter Designed for Volatile Emissions Analysis. Journal of Environmental Quality 25:371-3.

* Spongberg, A. L. and K. W. Brown, 1995. Volatilization of Toxic Organic Compounds During In-vessel Composting of Hazardous Waste.  Hazardous Waste and Hazardous Materials 12(4):295-307.

* Gay, A. L., 1989. Integrated Geologic/Engineering Study of Kurten Field Waterflood Project.  AAPG Bulletin. 73:357.

* Gay, A. L. and D. E. Grandstaff, 1979. The Chemistry and Mineralogy of Precambrian Paleosols at Elliot Lake, Ontario, Canada.  Precambrian Research 12: 349-373.

 

 

Professional Presentations Since 1994:  (presenter is in bold type)

Oyewumi, O. and A.L. Spongberg.  Comparative study of cadmium, copper and nickel adsorption in three brownfield sites, Northwest, Ohio.  Geological Society of America, North-Central Section, Evansville, IN April, 2008.

Spongberg, A.L. and Chenxi Wu,  Determination of the persistence of pharmaceuticals in biosolids using liquid chromatography – tandem mass spectrometry.  Ohio Academy of Science, April, 2008.

Spongberg, A.L. and O. Oyewumi.  Adsorption characteristics of brownfield sites in Northwest, Ohio.  Ohio Academy of Science,  April 2008.

Norton, Abby, A.L. Spongberg and D. Krantz. 2007 Post Glacial Stratigraphy and Sand Resources in the Western Basin of Lake Erie, 2007 Geological Society of America Annual Meeting, Denver, CO, October 28-31. 

Holt, L.M. A. E. Laursen, L. H. McCarthy, I. V. Bostan and A. L. Spongberg. Changes to microbial nitrogen-fixation, respiration, and community structure following land-application of municipal biosolids.  Moving Forward: Wastewater Biosolids Sustainability:  Technical, Managerial, and Public Synergy Conference. Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada, June 24-27, 2007.

Norton, A, A.L. Spongberg, D. Krantz, J.A. Fuller.  Preliminary Geophysical Investigation in Western Lake Erie. Geological Society of America, Joint South-Central and North-Central Sections 41st Annual Meeting, Kansas City, Kansas, April 2007.

Shirk, G., J. Struble, A. Spongberg, V. Brown (panel) Professors Analyzing their Teaching.Northwest Symposium of Science, Mathematics and Technology. November 3-4, 2006.  Toledo, Ohio

Spongberg, A.L. and J. Witter Pharmaceutical and Personal Care Products - Mass Balance through the waste water treatment process in Oregon, Ohio.  GSA National Conference, Philadelphia, PA October 2006.

Gottgens, J.F., S.J. Roberts, J.E. Evans, A.L. Spongberg and N.S. Levine. Assessing Potential Removal of Low-Head Dams in Urban Settings:  A Case-Study from the Ottawa River, NW Ohio.  2006 IAGLR Annual Conference, Windsor, Ontario, Canada May 2006.

Spongberg, A.L.,  K.P. Czajkowski, J. Rader, D. Czajkowski, J. Witter.  Sewage Sludge Application Effects on Northwest Ohio Farmlands, (including preliminary data on Pharmaceuticals) 2005 ASA-CSSA-SSSA International Annual Meetings (November 6-10, 2005), Salt Lake City, UT.

Bobak, D. and A.L. Spongberg Forensic Evaluation of PAHs in Otter Creek Watershed. 2005 ASA-CSSA-SSSA International Annual Meetings (November 6-10, 2005), Salt Lake City, UT.

Rader, Jennifer, A.L. Spongberg, K.P. Czajkowski, J. Witter, D. Czajkowski  Northwest Ohio Study on Consequences of Sewage Sludge Application to Agricultural Lands.  21st Annual International Conference on Soils, Sediments and Water, Amherst, MA October 17-21, 2005

Bobak, D. and A.L. Spongberg Geochemical Forensics Evaluation of Otter Creek Watershed. 21st Annual International Conference on Soils, Sediments and Water, Amherst, MA October 17-21, 2005.  **Won Best Student Platform Award.**

Czajkowski, K. P., A.L. Spongberg, T. Benko, T. Ault, J. Witter, T. Bragg Temperature and soil temperature protocols: observations, partnerships, science. AGI Annual Conference, San Francisco, CA Dec 5-9, 2005.

Muller, Barry E., Johan F. Gottgens, Alison L. Spongberg. Effects of Long-term Non-point Agricultural Runoff on Phosphorus Retention by a Lake Erie Marsh. The WETPOL (International Symposium on Wetland Pollutant Dynamics and Control) conference, Ghent, Belgium, September 4-8, 2005. 

Czajkowski, K. P., A.L. Spongberg, T. Benko, T. Ault, J. Witter, T. Bragg Surface Temperature and Soil Temperature Protocols: Observations, Partnerships, Science.  Presented at the Annual GLOBE conference, Prague, Czech Republic, July 2005.

Spongberg, A.L.  My Story: How and Education-Oriented Scientist was Educated. Presented at SciMaTec Dialogues Across College Barriers Series, March 25, 2005.

Buchanan, Catherine and A.L. Spongberg.  Feasibility Study to Determine the Use of Toledo Harbor Dredge Material for Mitigation of Heavy Metals.  International Conference on Great Lakes Research, Ann Arbor, MI May 23-27, 2005.

Bobak, D.  and A.L. Spongberg.  Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Characterization from Point and Non-point Sources in Otter Creek, Northwest, Ohio. International Conference on Great Lakes Research, Ann Arbor, MI May 23-27, 2005.

Witter, J and A.L. Spongberg Soil  Temperature Characterization and Calculation of Soil Heat Flux in the Oak Openings Region Near the Western Basin of Lake Erie. International Conference on Great Lakes Research, Ann Arbor, MI May 23-27, 2005.

Spongberg, A.L., K. Czjakowski, J. Rader, D. Czajkowski Effects of Biosludge Application to a Farm Field in Northwest Ohio on Nutrient, Organic Carbon and Heavy Metal Levels. International Conference on Great Lakes Research, Ann Arbor, MI May 23-27, 2005.

Mileyeva-Biebesheimer, O., Wang, Q, Spongberg, A., and Gruden, C. “Accelerating PCB Dechlorination in Freshwater Sediments” Battelle In-Situ and On-Site Bioremediation Symposium, Baltimore, MD. June 2005

Czajkowski, D, K. P. Czajkowski, A.L. Spongberg, J. E. Rader, K. Gerwin.  Investigation of potential environmental impact of biosolid sludge application on agricultural fields.  East Lakes Division of the Association of American Geographers, October 15-16, 2004. 

Witter, J. and A.L. Spongberg.  Soil temperature with depth:  reassessing the GLOBE soil temperature protocol.  AAPG regional meeting, Columbus, OH  October 3-6, 2004.  ***Received Section Award for Best Poster***

Spongberg, A.L.  Student Remote Response Units: Is Better Learning a Few Clicks Away?  Center for Teaching and Learning, University of Toledo September 8, 2004.

Witter, J., and A.L. Spongberg.  Soil Temperature at Depth Protocol. GLOBE Teacher Workshop, Toledo, Ohio  September, 2004.

Witter, J. and A.L. Spongberg  Creating Methodology and A Dataset in Order to Assess Soil and Surface Temperatures with Regards to a Global Energy Budget Protocol: A GLOBE Study.  GLOBE Teacher Workshop, July 2004.

(invited)  Struble, J., A.L. Spongberg and K.P. Czajkowski ESSEA for middle school teachers.  The annual ESSEA summer workshop, Woods Hole, MA July, 2004.

 (invited) Spongberg, A.L. and K.P. Czajkowski.  An analysis of soil temperature with depth.  The 8th Annual GLOBE conference.  Boulder, CO, July 25-30, 2004

(invited) Czajkowski, K.P.,  T. Ault, T. Benko, A. Spongberg, J. Struble, M. Templin, J. Kane.  Engaging K-12 Students in Science: Validating Satellite Imagery with GLOBE Observations The 8th Annual GLOBE conference.  Boulder, CO, July 25-30, 2004

(invited) Spongberg, A.L., K.P. Czajkowski, and J. Struble.  Problems and Pitfalls from a Professor’s Perspective: Earth System Science Education Alliance. Annual AGU Conference, San Francisco, December, 2003.

Czajkowski, K P, A. L. Spongberg, J. Struble, T. Benko, M. Templin.  Validating the MODIS snow product with GLOBE student observations. Annual AGU Conference, San Francisco, December, 2003.

Struble, J., A.L.Spongberg, and K. Czajkowski, Using Inquiry-based Kits in College Science Content Courses.  NSTA, Philadelphia, PA.  March 2003

Ernest DuBrul, A. Spongberg, K. Czajkowski, J. Struble, C. Czerniak, Cyber Science Faculty: Challenges and Opportunities of Teaching Inquiry Science On-line. AETS, 2003

Czajkowski, K. P., Spongberg, A.L. and Struble, J. Distance Learning and Teachers: Experiences from the Earth System Science Education Alliance, American Geophysical Union, San Francisco.  December 2002.

Spongberg, A.L., L. Hartley, and C. Sager. Adsorption Rates for Heavy Metal Contaminants at the Fostoria, Ohio Phytoremediation Site.  International Conference on Contaminated Soils, October, 2002 Amherst, MA

(invited) Spongberg, A.L.  Evaluation of Pollutants (Pesticides, Hydrocarbons, and PCBs) in Sediments of Four Coastal Sites in Costa Rica.  University of Costa Rica, September 4, 2002.

(invited) Spongberg, A.L. Evaluation of Pollutants in sediments in Papagayo Bay, Costa Rica. Presented to representatives of local interests in Bahia de Culebra September 2, 2002.

Spongberg, A.L., Fuller, J.A., Tevesz, M.J.S. and Jicha, B.R., Lake Erie’s Detroit delta or River Raisin fan/delta or both?  North-Central Section (36th) and Southeastern Section (51st), GSA Joint Annual Meeting (April 3-5, 2002).

Czajkowski, K.P. and A.L. Spongberg. Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) at the University of Toledo’s Lake Erie Center: Environmental Studies of Lake Erie and its Watershed.  Fall 2001 AGU

Neher, D.A., A.L. Spongberg, and D.L. Moorhead, Phytoremediation of Heavy Metal Contaminated Soils in Ohio.  Ohio Biotechnology Consortium Workshop, September 2001.

Spongberg, A.L. Organic and Inorganic Contamination Associated with Cemeteries in Ohio.  North-Central Section of the Geological Society of America.  Indianapolis, IN April, 2000.

Marlow, B.M. and Spongberg, A.L. Pesticide Retention in Tropical Soils (Ultisols) and Temperate Soils (Alfisols)  North-Central Section of the Geological Society of America.  Indianapolis, IN April, 2000.

Lynn, C.J. and Spongberg, A.L. Heavy Metal Content of Biota, Water and Sediment along the Rouge River, Michigan.  North-Central Section of the Geological Society of America.  Indianapolis, IN April, 2000.

(invited) Gottgens, J.F., B.E. Muller, and A.L. Spongberg. Longterm Nonpoint Pollution Abatement by a Lake Erie Marsh and its Implication for Wetland Restoration Policies.  Annual Ohio Lake Erie Conference, Huron, Ohio. September 1, 1999.

Muller, B. E, J. F. Gottgens, A. L. Spongberg and N. Kusina.  The Effects of Long-term Nonpoint-Source Nutrient Loading in Two Impounded Lake Erie Marshes, Proceedings of the Society of Wetland Scientists 20th Annual Meeting, Norfolk, Virginia. June, 1999.

Spongberg, A.L. J. F. Gottgens, and B, E. Muller.  Heavy Metal and Pesticide Accumulation Rates at Winous Point Marshes, Sandusky Bay, Ohio. 42nd International Conference on Great Lakes Research, Cleveland, OH, May, 1999. 

Blakely, J.K., Neher, D.A. and Spongberg, A.L. 1999. Effect of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Concentrations on Nematode Communities and Decomposition. Soil Ecology Society, Chicago, Illinois, May, 1999.

Blakely, J.K., Neher, D.A. and Spongberg, A.L. 1999. Effect of Creosote on Nematode Community Composition and Decomposition. Ecological Society of America annual meeting, Spokane, Washington. August, 1999.

Niekamp, S., and A.L. Spongberg, Pesticide Transport at a North Central Ohio Golf Course. National Conference for Undergraduate Research, Syracuse, New York, April 23, 1999.

Kusina, N. and A.L. Spongberg, Metal Content and Core Dating of the Winous Point Marshes, Sandusky Bay, Ohio. 21st Midwest Environmental Chemistry Workshop, University of Michigan, October 16-18, 1998.

Marlow B. S. and A. L. Spongberg,  Plant Oxidation Rates and Products for Angiosperms, Gymnosperms and Ambrosia Under Aerobic Conditions. 21st Midwest Environmental Chemistry Workshop, University of Michigan, October 16-18, 1998.

Gottgens, J.F., B.E. Muller, A.L. Spongberg and D.H. Davis, 100-year Records of the Accumulation of Sediment, Nutrients, Pesticides, and Trace Metals in a Lake Erie Marsh Impacted by Agriculture and a Reference Marsh. 19th Annual meeting of the Society of Wetland Scientists, Anchorage, AK, June 8-12, 1998.

Marlow, B. S., A.L. Spongberg, D. Neher, J.A. Fuller, and M.J.S. Tevesz, The Feasibility of Using Lignins as Climatic Biomarkers for Lake Erie Basin Sediments. International Conference on Great Lakes Research, 41st Conference, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, May 18-22, 1998. p146.

Marlow, Brian and Alison L. Spongberg, 1998 Lignin Degradation Rates and Products in Angiosperms and Gymnosperms of Different Ages, National Conference for Undergraduate Research, Salisbury State University, Salisbury MY, April 24, 1998, p55.

Spera, Shelley and A.L. Spongberg.  Metal and Pesticide Preservation in Winous Point Marshes, Geological Society of America North-Central Section. Columbus, Ohio, March 19-20, 1998, Vol 30, No 2, p72.

Marlow, Brian and Alison L. Spongberg. Lignin Degradation Rates and Products in Angiosperms and Gymnosperms of Different Ages, Geological Society of America North-Central Section. Columbus, Ohio, March 19-20, 1998, Vol 30, No.2, p58-59.

Ganliang, L. and A.L. Spongberg. An Approach of Effect of Soil Type and Solution Media on Atrazine and Metolachlor Distribution Coefficient.  Geological Society of America North-Central Section. Columbus, Ohio, March 19-20, 1998, Vol 30, No 2, p57.

Spongberg, A. L., M.J.S. Tevesz, and J. A. Fuller.  Organic Geochemical Evidence for the History of the Infilling of the Sandusky Subbasin, Lake Erie.  International Association for Great Lakes Research, 40th Conference, Buffalo, NY. June, 1997, p127.

Fuller, J. A., M.J.S. Tevesz, and A. L. Spongberg.  Infilling History of the Sandusky Subbasin, Lake Erie: Sedimentological and Isotopic Evidence. International Association for Great Lakes Research, 40th Conference, Buffalo, NY. June, 1997, p120.

Spongberg, A. L. and J.M. Martin-Hayden.  Pesticide Stratification in an Engineered Wetland Delta.. 19th MidWest Environmental Chemistry Workshop, Purdue U., IN, October, 1996.

Davis P.  and A. L. Spongberg.  A Geochemical Investigation of the Golfo Dulce Sediments, Costa Rica.  19th MidWest Environmental Chemistry Workshop, Purdue U., IN, October, 1996.

Becks, P. M. and A. L. Spongberg.  Soil and Groundwater Contamination from Cemetery Leachate. 19th MidWest Environmental Chemistry Workshop, Purdue U., IN, October, 1996.

Lefticariu, M. and A. L. Spongberg.  Hydrogeochemical sStudy of the Dunkirk Aquifer, Hardin County, Ohio.  19th MidWest Environmental Chemistry Workshop, Purdue U., IN, October, 1996.

* Brown, L.C., M.T. Batte, N.R. Fausey, H.W. Belcher, J.D. Eigel and A.L. Spongberg.  Water Table Management to Balance Environmental and Economic Goals in the Central Great Lakes Region of the United States  6th ICID Drainange Workshop: Drainage and Environment. Ljubljana, Slovenia, April 21-28, 1996.

Spongberg, A. L. and J.M. Martin-Hayden.  The Use of Geochemical Stratigraphy to Characterize Pesticide Input Functions.  National Ground Water Association 47th Annual Convention and Exposition,  Indianapolis, IN October, 1995.

* Brown, L.C., M. T. Batte, N. R. Fausey, H.W. Belcher, J. D. Eigel and A. L. Spongberg,  Basis for a Comprehensive Agricultural Water Management Guide for the Central Great Lakes Region. The Ohio Academy of Science, 1995.

El-Gharbawy, A. and A. L. Spongberg.  Microbial and Photodegradation of Pesticides in a Local Northwestern Ohio Soil.  18th Midwest Environmental Chemistry Workshop, Ohio State University, October 7-8, 1995.

Spongberg, A. L.  Volatilization of Toxic Organic Compounds during In-vessel Composting of Hazardous Waste. 18th Midwest Environmental Chemistry Workshop, Ohio State University, October 7-8, 1995.

Brown, K.W. and A. L. Spongberg, 1994. The Use of In-vessel Composting as a Means of Hazardous Waste Minimization (abstract) Proceedings of 1994 GCHSCB annual meeting.  Beaumont, TX, March 2-4, 1994.

Spongberg, A. L. and K.W. Brown, 1992. Volatilization of Hazardous Compounds during In-vessel Composting (abstract) Proceedings of 1992 Soil Science Society of America annual convention, Minneapolis MN, Nov. 2-6, 1992.

 

Research Grant Applications:

 

Granted:

      Agencies:

Czajkowski, K.P., A.L. Spongberg, D. Dwyer and W.V. Sigler, Monitoring Agricultural Sewage Sludge IV. July 1, 2008 - June 30, 2009. USDA $875,000.

Dwyer, D., Krantz, D., Fisher, T., Egan, K., and A. Spongberg.  Phytoremediation – Design of Treatment Wetlands.  July 1, 2007 – June 30, 2008. USDA $511, 475.

Czajkowski, K.P., A.L. Spongberg, D. Dwyer and W.V. Sigler, Monitoring Agricultural Sewage Sludge III. July 1, 2007 - June 30, 2008. USDA $845,017.

Spongberg, A.L.  Degradation of Polyacrylamide Hydrogels in Greenhouse Soils II.  USDA-ARS 6/11/07 -  6/10/08 $52,966.

Moorhead, D., C. Stepien, J. Chen, A. Spongberg, and 11 others.  Integrating Environmental and Public Health of Urban Ecosystems. Programs in Academic Excellence. $15,000 (less).

Czajkowski, K.P., A.L. Spongberg, D. Dwyer and W.V. Sigler, Monitoring Agricultural Sewage Sludge II. July 1, 2006 - June 30, 2009. USDA $1,192,586.

Duran, E., K. Rhoda, E. DuBrul, and A.L. Spongberg.  Project DETAILS. Ohio Board of Regents, October 31, 2005.  $136,123. 1/26/06 – 5/31/07.

Spongberg, A.L. and C. Mayer.  REU Site: Integrated Assessment of Physical, Ecological, and Socio-economic Aspects of a Watershed System May 2005 – April 2007. National Science Foundation $258,909.

Spongberg, A.L. Funds for Distinguished Lecturer, Gail Ashley, American Association of Women Geoscientists. $720.  April 2006.

Spongberg, A.L.  Degradation of Polyacrylamide Hydrogels in Greenhouse Soils.  USDA-ARS 9/1/05 - 6/10/07 $10,610.

Czajkowski, K.P., A.L. Spongberg, W.V. Sigler, D. F. Dwyer. Monitoring Agricultural Sewage Sludge.  USDA Special Grant Program 6/01/05 – 5/31/08, $1,194,995.

Dwyer, D., A.L. Spongberg, W.V. Sigler, and D. Krantz.  Phytoremediation Plant Research III USDA Special Grant Program.  $532,200 9/15/04-9/14/06.

Spongberg, A.L. and K.P.Czajkowski.  Distance Learning Earth System Science Course for In-service Teachers.  Submitted to OBOR Improving Teacher Quality Program 6/1/04 - 5/31/05.  $60,626.

Dwyer, D., A. Spongberg, D. Krantz. And V. Sigler. Phytoremediation Plant Research II.  USDA Special Research Grant Program/2002-06143. $595,146.  9/15/03 – 9/14/05.

Czajkowski, K. P. and A. L. Spongberg.  An Integrated Assessment of Physical, Ecological, and Socio-economic Aspects of a Watershed System.  National Science Foundation Research Experience for Undergraduates $186,713, 5/02-4/05. 

Spongberg, A.L .and K.P. Czajkowski, Earth System and Space Science Concepts Distance Learning Course for In-service Teachers, submitted to the Ohio Board of Regents, Improving Teacher Quality Professional Development Program.  6/1/03 – 5/31/04 $79,206.

Dwyer, D., D. Neher, and A. Spongberg.  Phytoremediation Plant Research.  USDA Special Research Grant Program/2002-06143. $284,020.  7/1/02 – 6/30/04.  Submitted 1/02.

Vargas J.A., Spongberg, A.L. et al.  Contaminacion ambiental y su impacto en sistemas endocrinos de organismos marinos. CRUSA  1/15/03-1/14/05.  140,771,062.00 colones (~$400,000.00 U.S.)

Czajkowski, K., A. Spongberg, M. Templin.  Energy and Earth Systems: GLOBE Protocol Research and Outreach.  NSF, $381,282  9/15/02 – 1/31/06.

Gottgens, J.F., A.L. Spongberg.  Dam removal in the Ottawa River, Ohio: A feasibility study needed for comprehensive regional planning.  Ohio Coastal Management Assistance Grants Program, $82,696,7/01/02-6/30/03.

Czajkowski, K., Spongberg, A., and Struble, J.  Implementation of In-service Earth System Science Distance Learning.  Eisenhower Foundation. 9/01/01-8/31/02, $36,480.

Spongberg, A.L., K. Czajkowski and J. Struble, Initiating Inquiry-Based Learning at the University of Toledo.   NASA Opportunities for Visionaries (NOVA). $25,995, 9/01/01-8/31/02.  

Czajkowski, K., Spongberg, A., and Struble, J.  Implementation of the Earth System Science Alliance in the Great Lakes Region.  Institute for Global Environmental Strategies, ESSEA. 6/2001-5/2004, $44,992.

Neher, D.A., A.L. Spongberg, D.L. Moorhead, S.L. Goldman. S.M. Leisner, and J. Gray.  Biotechnology for phytoremediation of Heavy Metal Contaminated Soils in Ohio.  Ohio Plant Biotechnology Consortium. 7/2000-6/2001, $47,000.

Czajkowki, K. P, Spongberg, A.L. et al. Research Experience for Undergraduates: An Integrated Assessment of Physical, Ecological, and Socio-economic Aspects of a Watershed System.  National Science Foundation.  5/2000-4/2002, $49,515. 

Vargas, J. A., J. Acuña, C. Jiménez, A. Spongberg, and H. Dean,  Centro de Investigación en Ciencias del Mar y Limnologia Proyecto en Costa Rica.  CRUSA (Costa Rica – USA Foundation) 6/1999. 46.418.000 colones (~$166,972.00)

Spongberg, A.L. Characterization of Old Wood Sample from Lake Erie. Lake Erie Protection Fund Small Grant Program, 7/10/98, $4125.

Gottgens, J.F., A. L. Spongberg, and D. Davis.  Long-term Non-point Pollution Abatement by a Lake Erie Marsh and its Implications for Wetland Restoration .  Lake Erie Protection Fund.  $120,901.  7/24/96

Spongberg, A. L. and J.M. Martin-Hayden.  Analysis of Pesticide Transport Pathways and Degradation in Engineered Wetlands.  USDA Competitive Grants Program.  $80,000.  9/01/95 through 8/31/97.

Martin-Hayden, J.M. and A. L. Spongberg.  Pesticide Transport, Water Balance, and Geochemical Characterization of the Blue Creek Watershed.  Ohio Board of Regents  $22018.  7/1/96

Marlow, B. S. and A. L. Spongberg.  Fate of Organic Contaminants in Frozen Soils.  Northeast Section of the Geological Society of America.  3/96  $300.

Spongberg, A. L., J.F. Gottgens, S.M. Leisner, J.M. Martin-Hayden, and R.L. Sinsabaugh.  Viral Pathogen and Herbicide Fate and Transport in Agricultural Soil and Runoff.  USDA Special Grants Program $158,757.  University contribution $72,298, Total $231,055.  7/01/95 through 6/30/97.

 

 

University:

 

Spongberg, A.L. Faculty Development Funds.  $240. December 2006.

Spongberg, A.L. Travel funds for Sabbatical Trip to Costa Rice. Foy and Phyllis Penn Kohler Fund for International Studies.  $200.00 April 11, 2005

Spongberg, A.L.  Travel funds for Costa Rica Sample Collection  Kohler International Travel Fund, $300 8/04.

Spongberg, A.L. Request for funds to attend Fall 2003 American Geophysical Union conference, San Francisco, CA.  $300.  12/03.

Spongberg, A.L.  Request for funds to attend International Conference on Contaminated Soils, Amherst, MA.  University of Toledo Faculty Development Funds.  $400. 11/02.

Spongberg, A.L. $5000 Summer Research Fellowship and Research Grant, U.T.

Spongberg, A.L.  Request for funds to attend National GSA.  University of Toledo Faculty Development Funds.  $275. 11/19/00

Spongberg, A.L. and B. McDonald.  Preliminary Fractured Clay Test Pit Site Investigation.  1999 Lake Erie Center Summer Fellowship, 5/1999 $10,000.

Spongberg, A.L.  Column Flow Study for Pesticide Fate and Transport at Blue Creek.  1999 University Research Fellowship Program. 5/1999, $9000.

Spongberg, A. L. Pesticide Sorption Analysis of Golfo Dulce sediments.  Kohler Faculty Travel Grant $1300, 5/99.

Spongberg, A.L., Sample Collection Trip to Costa Rica to Expand Research.  Small Faculty Grant. 4/14/99, $500.00

Spongberg, A.L. Research in Costa Rica.  Faculty Development Funds, 1/19/99, $460.00.

Niekamp, S. and A.L. Spongberg.  Study of Contaminant Runoff Associated with Golf Course Maintenance.  Honors Undergraduate Summer Research and Creative Activities Fellowship, University of Toledo, 5/98, $2250.

Spongberg, A. L.  Pesticide Stratification within the Blue Creek Wetland Delta.  University Summer Research Fellowships and Research Grant Program.  $8418.  5/97

Marlow, B. S., Spongberg, A. L. and D. Neher.  Characterization of Lignin in Fresh and Degraded Conifers and Deciduous Wood.  Undergraduate Student Research Fellowship, University of Toledo.  $2250.  5/97.

Spongberg, A. L. Pesticide Accumulation within Golfo Dulce sediments.  Kohler Faculty Travel Grant $500, 3/97.

Homsher, M., A. L. Spongberg, J. Gottgens, and D. Neher.  Comparison of a Novel Sampling Technique, Semipermeable Membrane Devices to a Great Lakes Biomonitor: Dreissena polymorpha.  Lake Erie Center Summer Fellowship.  $10,000. 5/97.

Spongberg, A. L. Hydrology and Contaminant Plume Identification at Pelee Island Landfill.  University Small Grant $500.  7/96

Homsher, M., J. Gottgens, and A. L. Spongberg.  The Silence of the Sentinels: An Investigation of Wetland Contaminant Cycles and Trophic Impact.  Lake Erie Center 1996 Summer Fellowship Program.  $10,000 5/96.

Spongberg, A. L.  Preliminary Investigation of Metals and Organic Contamination in Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica.  Kohler International Travel Funds.  $1000.  1/96.

Hugg, J.L. and A. L. Spongberg.  Blue Creek Wetlands Soil Survey.  Honors Undergraduate Summer Research and Creative Activities Fellowship.  1/96  $2250.

Marlow, B. S. and A. L. Spongberg.  Fate of Organic Contaminants in Frozen Soils.  Undergraduate Summer Research Fellowship Program.  1/96  $2250.

Gottgens, J.F. and A. L. Spongberg.  Long-term Assimilation of Agricultural Chemicals by a Lake Erie Marsh.  Lake Erie Research Center $3000.  8/95.

Spongberg, A. L.  Preliminary Investigation of Metals and Organic Contamination in Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica.  Small Grants Fund for Research Support. $400  8/29/95.

Spongberg, A. L.  Analysis of Pesticide Degradation in Aerobic and Anaerobic Sediments Associated with Wetlands.  University Research Awards and Fellowship Program  $8000.  6/95 through 8/95.

Hugg, J.L. and A. L. Spongberg  Pesticide Transport in Wetland Sediment.  Honors Undergraduate Summer Research and Creative Activities Fellowship.  1/95  $1250

 

 

In review:

Spongberg, A.L. and J. Witter.  Exploring Wastewater Treatment Processes to Reduce Pharmaceutical Drug Concentrations in Biosolids.  Submitted in September 2007 to Cooperative Institute for Coastal and Estuarine Environmental Technology

Spongberg, A.L. and C. Mayer.  REU Site: Integrated Assessment of Physical, Ecological, and Socio-economic Aspects of a Watershed System, May 2007 – April 2012. National Science Foundation Research Experience for Undergraduates Program $514, 430. Submitted August 2007.

 

Denied:

Jorgensen, A., et al.  Choose Ohio Pipeline Proposal, $4,512,000 Ohio Board of Regents.

Spongberg, A.L., W.V. Sigler,  S. Milz, B. Fink and J. Witter. The Environmental Impact of Hormone Use at Dairy CAFO in Ohio on Soils, Microorganisms and Human Health, Submitted to EPA-G2006-STAR-M1.  Submitted in August 2007.  Total Budget: $694,188.

Scavia, et al. The Cooperative Institute for Limnology and Ecosystems Research:  A new Great Lakes regional research institute.  $22,993,622,  July 1, 2007 – June 30, 2012

Spongberg, A.L. and D. Krantz.  Evaluation of Sand Resources in the Western Lake Erie Basin.  Submitted to the Lake Erie Protection Fund.  Re-submitted 4/2006  $9978. 5/1/06-4/30/07.

Spongberg, A.L. and W. V, Sigler,  The Environmental Impact of Antibiotics and Other PPCP Compounds on Soils, Bacteria and Human Health, in response to the Call for Proposals by the NOAA Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory (GLERL). Submitted 2/2007.  $50,000.

Czajkowski, K.P., D. Dwyer, P. Lindquist, V. Sigler, A. Spongberg and eight others.  GEOPUB GEOspatial Technology Use in PUBlic Health Research, $300,000.

Spongberg, A.L., L. McCarthy, A. Laursen and B. Bostan. An international collaboration to train students in biosolids impacts on agricultural soils and adjacent aquatic ecosystems.  Submitted to USDA-ISE Program, October 31, 2005.  $99,985. 6/1/06 – 5/31/08

Spongberg, A.L. and D. Krantz.  Evaluation of Sand Resources in the Western Lake Erie Basin.  Submitted to the Lake Erie Protection Fund.  11/9/05 $9963. 5/1/06-4/30/07.

Erhardt, P., Spongberg, A.L. plus eight, Ohio ADMET.  Submitted to the Ohio Department of Development, Biomedical Research and Technology Transfer Partnership Awards, 12/14/05.  $7,170,000.  6/01/06-5/31/09.

Czajkowski, K.P. and A.L. Spongberg Integrating NASA Programs; Enriching Teacher and Student Scientific Literacy through Inquiry-based Learning, 3-1-05 to 2-28-08, $586,821

 NASA Earth Science Education Program Gruden, C.L., A. L. Spongberg and K. Erichsen, Ottawa River: In Situ Remediation.  Submitted to EPA – Great Lakes National Program Office. 6/2004.  $174,234

Gruden, C. L. and A.L. Spongberg Promoting PCB Dechlorination in Stream Sediments.  Submitted to the Lake Erie Protection Fund 5/2004.  $77,411.00

Spongberg, A.L. and K.P. Czajkowski.  Surface water temperature determination through satellite imagery.  Submitted to the Lake Erie Protection Fund 2/5/04.  $9985.

Spongberg, A.L., D.F. Dwyer, and M. Abraham.  In-situ Optimization for Remediation of Arsenic-contaminated Groundwaters.  Submitted to Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program 1/9/03.  $334,630.

A.L. Spongberg, S. Aryeetey-Attoh, K. Czajkowski, C. Czerniak, M. Phillips. Enhancing Science Education at Toledo Public Schools: a School District Under Academic Emergency. $1,485,893. Submitted to NSF Division of Graduate Education on 6/10/02

Bullerjahn, G, M. McKay, and A. L. Spongberg.  Molecular assessment of the potential for in situ PCB bioremediation.  Ohio Sea Grant $119,658, 3/1/02 – 2/28/05.  Submitted 7/7/01

Spongberg, A.L. and K. Czajkowski,  Initiating Inquiry-Based Science Courses for Pre-Service Teachers at the University of Toledo. NSF Course, Curriculum and Laboratory Improvement (Adaptation and Implementation), $75,709 1/1/02 - 12/31/03 Submtitted 6/01.

Spongberg, A.L., D. Neher, D. Stierman, and D. Moorhead, Phytoremediation of Heavy Metal Contaminated Soils.  Great Lakes National Program Office.$97,292, 1/1/02 – 12/31/02. 

Spongberg, A.L. and J. Gottgens.  Sediment Testing along Ditches in Oregon, OH.  Lake Erie Protection Fund.  $11, 327. 8/1/08 – 7/31/02.  Submitted 5/01. 

Spongberg, A.L. and J.F. Gottgens, Fate, Transport and Accumulation of Glyphosate-based Herbicides.  USDA NRI-CGP, CSREES, $127,000, 7/01/01 – 12/31/02 Submitted 11/15/00.

Spongberg, A.L. and K. Czajkowski, Enhancing Education of Water Quality and Land Use: Extension of the Student Watershed Watch Program, EPA Environmental Education Grant Program 66-951, $25,000. 9/01/00 – 5/31/01 Submitted 11/15/00

Spongberg, A.L., J.F. Gottgens, and D.L. Moorhead.  Use of Glyphosate-based Herbicides in Lake Erie Wetland: Transport, Persistence, and Biological Impact.  Lake Erie Protection Fund.  Submitted 4/2000. $99,999.00.

Spongberg, A.L. Delineating Pollutant Loads to the Maumee River.  The University of Toledo Research Awards and Fellowship Program, 4/21/2000, $9000.

Czajkowski, K.P., T. Bailey, L. Glatzer, J. Gottgens, P. Lindquist, J. Martin-Hayden, D. Moorhead, H. Reid, A. Spongberg, S. Zellmer, Integrated Assessment and Predictive Modeling of Physical, Ecological, and Socio-economic Aspects of Watershed Systems: Application to Sediment/Contaminant Transport and Deposition.  Submitted to NSF Water and Watersheds Research 99-STAR-L1, $838,088.00, June, 1999

Burns, F Closing the Distance between Science and the Community, NSF-PFSMETE Program 2/1/99 (Co-mentor).

Spongberg, A.L. and B. McDonald, Pit Excavation for Fracture Identification in NW Ohio Tills.  U.S. EPA Great Lakes National Program Office, 4/27/99 $164,645.

Spongberg, A.L., CAREER Proposal: Lignin as an Environmental Indicator.  National Science Foundation. 7/22/98. $328,902.

Neher, D.A., J. Baker, and A.L. Spongberg, Effect of Creosote on Microinvertebrate Communities and Decomposition at an Abandoned Wood Preserving Plant in Toledo, Ohio.  Lake Erie Research and Education Center Faculty Fellowship. $10,000, April 17, 1998.

Spongberg, A.L. Bioremediation of Sediment from Duck and Otter Creeks.  Preproposal submitted to Great Lakes National Program Office, EPA, 2/1/98.

McKay, M. and A.L. Spongberg, Biodegradation of PCBs: Assessing the In-situ Remediation Potential of Contaminated Sediments.  Preproposal submitted to Lake Erie Protection Fund, 4/98.

Spongberg, A. L. Integrated Pesticide and Metal Pollution Evaluation within Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica. NSF International Research for Scientists and Engineers.  $148,012  11/97

Spongberg, A. L., M.J.S. Tevesz, and J. Fuller.  Environmental and Climatic Significance of Isotopic and Organic Chemical Variations in Sediment Cores from Lake Erie. National Science Foundation’s Environmental Geochemistry and Biogeochemistry Program, $244,137. 1/97

Haney, J.J., C.M. Czerniak, et al.  Northwest Ohio School Project.  NSF Teacher Enhancement LSC Program /K-8.  $3,534,032.00.  8/96.

Gottgens, J.F. and A. L. Spongberg.  Marsh Sediments as Long-term Assimilators of Agricultural Chemicals.  Ohio Sea Grant College Program.  $80,000.  1/96.  Funding Denied.

Spongberg, A. L., M.J.S. Tevesz, J. Fuller, and E. Barrera.  Downcore Variations in Organic and Isotopic Composition of Sediment Cores from Lake Erie and their Paleoenvironmental and Paleoclimatic Significance.  A preproposal submitted to the Great Lakes Protection Fund.  1/96. 

Spongberg, A. L.  Contaminant Characterization of Golfo Dulce, Costa Rica.  NSF Career Development Program.  $400,388  12/15/95. 

Stierman, D. J., J.M. Martin-Hayden, and A. L. Spongberg.  Geophysical Instruments for Environmental Field Research and Groundwater Investigations.  NSF Geosciences Directorate - Instrumentation and Facilities Program.  12/95. 

Martin-Hayden, J.M. and A. L. Spongberg. Characterization and Monitoring the Effects of Innovative Agricultural Water Management Technologies on Water Resources.  NSF/EPA Partnership for Environmental Research, April 28, 1995.  Funding Denied.

Brown L.C., M. T. Batte, H.W. Belcher, A. L. Spongberg, and N. R. Fausey.  Balancing Environmental and Economic Goals with Water Table Management in the Central Great Lakes Region.  Ohio Sea Grant College Program 12/23/94.

Spongberg, A. L.  Analysis of Pesticide Degradation in Aerobic and Anaerobic Sediments Associated with Wetlands.  A preproposal submitted to the United States Environmental Protection Agency,  Great Lakes National Program Office.  9/26/94.

 

 

Courses Taught at University of Toledo:

 


EEES 4450/5450 Hazardous Waste Management (3 hours)

NOVA-Inquiry-Based Earth Science

EEES 6200-995 Earth and Space Science Concepts (distance learning)

EEES 4980/5980 Soil Science (3 hours)

EEES 4220/5220 Environmental Geochemistry (3 hours)


EEES 6440 Contaminant Hydrogeology (team taught, 3 hours)

EEES 6120 Environmental Analytical Techniques (Lab, 2 hours)

EEES 6990-003 Environmental Research (2 hours)

EEES 1030 Geologic Hazards (3 hours)

EEES 1010 Physical Geology (3 hours)


 

 

Courses Taught at Chevron Oil Field Research Company:

 

            Geochemistry for the Exploration Geologist

            Geology Field Trip of West Texas Oil Fields

 

 

Ph.D. Dissertations Directed: 

Note, the Department does not grant Ph.D.s in Geology. These degrees are co-advised through Ecology, but research is conducted in A.Spongberg’s lab, under her supervision.

Homsher, M.  1999. A Novel Sampling Technique for PCB analysis, Semipermeable Membrane Devices  (co-advised with J. Gottgens)

Wu, Chenxi (begun 8/06) LC-ES-MS-MS Method Development for Pharmaceutical Compounds and Application to Biosolids Research

 

 

Master of Science Theses Directed: *

Completed:

 

Lesniak, Greg V. (1995)  The Hydrogeology and Geochemistry of the Toledo Tie Site, Toledo, Ohio.  Co-advised with Dr. W. Kneller.

Davis, Penny, (1997)  Distribution and Geochemistry of Contaminants in a Pristine and a Contaminated Gulf, Costa Rica. 

Becks, Paul (1997)  Soil and Water Contamination Associated with Graveyards.

Catalano, Chris, (1997)  Hydrology and Geochemistry of Leachate from an Active Landfill, Pelee Island, Ontario, Canada. 

Yeager, Kevin (1997)  Transport of Pesticide Through the Blue Creek Agricultural Soils.

Lefticariu, Mihai (1997)  Geochemical Characterization of the Dunkirk Aquifer.

Epstein, Paul, (1997)  Bioremediation of Creosote Contaminated Soils.

El-Gharbawy, Abeer, (1998)  Degradation of two Pesticides, Alachlor and Atrazine, in Wetland Soils

Ganliang, Lou (1998)  Determination and Comparison of Koc Values Experimentally and Mathematically for the Different Blue Creek Soil Types

Kusina, Nicholas (1999) Metal Content and Core Dating of the Winous Point Marshes, Sandusky Bay.

Taylor, Greg (2001) Organic Contamination Delineation at the Defiance Cemetery

Oros, Daniel (2002) Analysis of Fractures in Tills of Northwestern Ohio.

Vagen, Jennifer (2003) The Influence of Groundwater on Bluff Erosion at Bill Stanton Community Park, Lake County, OH.

Spera, Shelley (2004)  Pesticide and Metal Contaminant Variations Through the Past 100 Years in the Winous Point Marsh Sediments.

Hartley, Lindy (2004) Characterization of a Heavy Metal Contaminated Soil in Ohio for a Phytoremediation Project.

 

 

In progress:

 

Nelson, Donald (begun 1/07) Effect of different carbon sources on sediment retention of PAH compounds in Otter Creek.

Olewumi, O. (begun 8/06)  Phytoremediation of Organic Contaminants along Otter Creek

Norton, Abby (begun 1/06)  Post-glacial stratigraphy and sand resources in Western Basin of Lake Erie

Bobak, Deanna (begun 9/05)  PAH Characterization in Otter Creek.

Buchanan, Catherine (begun 5/04)  Lysimeter studies for phytoremediation at the King Road Landfill.

Witter, Jason (begun 8/02) Soil Temperature Variations with Lateral and Vertical Distances.

Bensman, Kelly (begun 5/99) Column Flow Studies in Three Soils from Blue Creek Wetlands.

Lynn, Christopher (begun 12/98) Phytoremediation of Metal Contaminants in the Rouge River, Michigan

Marlow, Brian (begun 9/98) The Use of Lignin as an Environmental Indicator.

Gensler, David (begun 5/98)  The Search of Contaminants in Leachate from a Cemetery Built in Sandy Soil.

 

 

 

Undergraduate Research Advisees:

 

Bernstein, Elyce (2007)  Heavy metal concentrations in plant materials associated with biosolids application.

Orosz, Chris (2006)  Heavy metal concentrations in soils associated with biosolids application.

Weller, Matthew (2005 and 2006)  Degradation of Ibuprofen in soils under varying environmental conditions.

Pittenger, Alycia (2005, 2006)  Trends in Nitrate dispersal iin a sludge applied agricultural setting.

Pittenger, Alycia (REU 2004) Temperature, pH, and soil texture interrelationships. 

Ronau, E.  (began 1/04)  Temperature variation with depth with season at the Stranahan Arboretum

Belknap, S. (began 1/04)  Soil moisture, temperature and pH correlation at the Stranahan Arboretum.

Lanza, Kate.  2002  Detailed field investigation of the Fostoria Waste Water Treatment Plant Disposal Site.

Haluka, 2002 Detailed field investigation of the Fostoria Waste Water Treatment Plant.

Sager, C.  2002  Lead sorption characteristic for sediment at the Fostoria Wastewater Treatment Facility.

Drake, E. 2002. Use of GIS in the Creation of a Soils Map for the Wegerzen Garden Center Site in Dayton, Ohio.

Gottschalk, Natalie, 2000 A laboratory study to determine copper uptake by Blackberry plants.

Buchanan, Catherine.  2000 A laboratory study to determine copper uptake by Ragweed

Niekamp, S. 1999  Study of Contaminant Runoff Associated with Golf Course Maintenance.  Honors

Marlow, B. S. 1998 Characterization of Lignin in Fresh and Degraded Conifers and Deciduous Wood. 

Gotch, Edward, 1996.  Evaluation of a Contaminated Site in Toledo.  Honors

Hugg, J.L. 1996.  Blue Creek Wetlands Soil Survey.  Honors

Marlow, B. S. 1996 Fate of Organic Contaminants in Frozen Soils. 

Fuggett, Susan 1996 PCB and organic contaminant analysis of Ottawa River.  Honors.

Hugg, J.L. 1995  Pesticide Transport in Wetland Sediment.  Honors.

 

 

Research Interests:

 

Environmental geochemistry of sediments and water

            GC-MS and LC-ES-MS-MS analyses of pesticide residues and pharmaceutical and personal care products.

            Biosolids and their environmental fate and effects

            Soil/leachate chemical interaction

            Characterization of contaminants in Costa Rica

            Pesticide degradation in wetland settings

            Geochemical markers in marshland cores

            Hydrogeologic evaluation of Blue Creek artificial wetlands

            Non-point pesticide pollution in relation to application technique

Hazardous waste characterization and soil science: 

            Identify hazardous waste contaminants and their degradation products

            Quantify chemical degradation half-lives in different media

            Identify the fate and transport of hazardous chemicals in different soil environments 

            The interaction of waste chemicals with soil clay minerals and organic matter

Phytoremediation

 

 

Educational Interests:

 

Director of the Summer Research Experience for Undergraduates at the University of Toledo (2006-current, co-director since 2001). NSF funded.

Scientist for NWO Teams Educational program in Northwest Ohio. OBOR funded.

Support Scientist and instructor for TAPESTRIES 1996-2001.  NSF funded.

Conduct Geology Department tour and activities

GLOBE scientist and trainer

ESSEA instructor

Promotes hands-on activities.

NASA NOVA instructor

 

 

Skills:

 

LC-ES-MS-MS analyses of complex compounds (pesticides, pharmaceuticals)

Gas chromatographic (MS, FID, ECD) analysis

Degradation studies of pesticides and hydrocarbons

Half-life determinations for contaminants in soil, water, compost

Soil classification

Stratigraphic and depositional environment analysis

Electric log evaluation

Paleoenvironmental reconstruction

Petroleum exploration and production

Reservoir continuity studies

Seismic and potential field data interpretation

 

 

Professional Affiliations:

 

American Chemical Society

International Association of Great Lakes Research

Geological Society of America

Society for Exploration Geophysicists, Pacific Coast Section

            Treasurer  1985-1987

            Vice-President 1984

Stormy Petrels of Maumee Bay (2001 – present)

Minister Without Portfolio (2005 – present)

 

 

Other Areas of Professional interest 

 

Faculty Senate 2005-current

Arts and Sciences Council, 1994-1996.

Undergraduate advisor in Department (one of four)

Lab inspector for OSHA compliance for the EEES Department

University Committee on Diversity (Chair) – 2003-current

University Committee on Undergraduate Research (Chair) – 2006-current

Board member for the Instrumentation Center – 2000-current

Part time appointment to the Lake Erie Research and Education Center

Ad hoc Graduate Degrees Committee member

Graduate Affairs Committee

Undergraduate Affairs Committee

Student Awards Committee Chairperson

Active on the committees of the following organizations: 

      Toledo Area Council of Governments (TMACOG) Dumps and Landfills

      TMACOG Agricultural Runoff

      TMACOG Blue Creek Wetland Project and Management Team

Speaker at Lourdes College Women in Science, November, 1994

Presenter at the Governor’s Gifted Summer Institute, July l995

Northwest Ohio Science Fair Judge yearly since 1995

Appeared on a three-part television news story on water quality (1999).

Geological consultant for the City of Oregon

Participated in the TAPESTRIES program, 1998-2003 through the Departments of Education at BGSU and UT (Haney and Czerniak)

Participated in an Eisenhower Teaching Grant, 6/1998, through the College of Engineering, UT (Abraham)

Presented at numerous seminars at Universities.