Leo Baldiga – Water Management and Agricultural Technology
Leo Baldiga is a third-year PhD student in the Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences. His research bridges social science, water management, and emerging agricultural technologies, with a focus on Southeast Asia.
Katherine McCullen – Phytoremediation Using Duckweed
Katherine McCullen is a PhD student in the Department of Biosystems & Agricultural Engineering. Her research involves the use of duckweed, an aquatic plant, as a phytoremediator, removing contaminants from the environment.
Testing for contaminants in soil, water and plants
Sometimes, what you don’t know can hurt you. The MSU Extension soil testing service offers a variety of analyses through the Home Lawn and Garden Soil Test Mailer and the commercial soil test bag.
Lake and stream volunteer monitoring: How to get involved
Grant applications are due March 6, 2026, for organizations wishing to host stream monitoring or cleanup efforts. Enrollment for lake monitoring is open now through August.
Marinna Guzy – Great Lakes Fisheries and Indigenous Knowledge
Marinna Guzy is a doctoral student in the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife with a dual major in Environmental Science and Policy. One aspect of her research focuses on building relationships with the Bay Mills Indian Community.
Autumn Bland – Water Access
Autumn Bland is a second-year PhD student in the Department of Sociology. Her research examines household and individual water access, including access to plumbing and basic water infrastructure.
Rui Li – PFAS in Agriculture
Rui Li is a PhD student in the Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences. Her research uses machine learning to study soil and crop systems.
Angelique Willis – Drinking Water Quality and Public Health
Angelique Willis is a dual PhD student in Geography and Environmental Science and Policy. Her research centers drinking water quality and public health outcomes, with a specific focus on environmental justice and underserved communities.
Greg Rouland – Wastewater and Soil Management
Greg Rouland is a PhD student in the Department of Biosystems & Agricultural Engineering. Using a machine called the tTEM, he collects data on soil resistivity across fields, which helps to determine where wastewater can be applied most effectively.
Andrew Chesang – Precision Agriculture
Andrew Chesang is a doctoral student in the Department of Biosystems & Agriculture Engineering. His research uses robots, 3D imaging, and in-field sensors to help farmers manage their apple orchards throughout the year.
One lake's success story: Winning the fight to control invasive Eurasian water milfoil
Higgins Lake uses diver-assisted suction harvesting to reduce the aquatic invasive species but it has taken an investment of time and money.
National Groundwater Awareness Week: March 8-14, 2026
National Groundwater Awareness Week is the second week in March. There are many online resources available to learn more about the importance of groundwater and how to keep drinking water safe.