Improving Our Understanding of Wetlands
Connor and Lauren organizing equipment at a wetland in a field where a new land management practice will be applied (variable rate application). (Anita Alvarez)
May 15, 2024
Researchers from the University of Saskatchewan (Global Institute for Water Security) are in Mistawasis Nêhiyawak this summer, studying wetlands and their vital role in our ecosystem. Ana (Anita), Connor, and Lauren will be visiting wetlands (also called sloughs) every two weeks from May to September this year. Say “Hi” if you see us!
Our research is about understanding how land management affects wetland water quality and how wetlands store and release greenhouse gases (GHGs). We are contributing to two Bridge Project goals: (1) Improve land management strategies and (2) Protect biodiversity and water.
What are we sampling?
We will collect water, air, and soil samples to measure different forms of carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus in and around wetlands. Among the chemicals we will investigate are nitrate, ammonia, GHGs (methane, carbon dioxide, and nitrous oxide), and sediment organic matter.
How it works
Water samples are analyzed on an instrument in our lab. Sediment samples are heated in the lab oven to measure organic matter. To measure GHGs, we use chambers to trap gases that are being released or absorbed from the water and exposed sediments at our study sites. We also collect water in a sealed bottle, add some air, and shake it for two minutes. In this process, GHGs dissolved in the water are trapped in the small pocket of air and can be extracted for analysis. Once all samples are analyzed, they can help us understand changes in GHG fluxes due to agricultural practices and climate variability.
Why it matters
Wetlands provide vital ecosystem services, including carbon sequestration, water storage during droughts and floods, and habitat for plants and animals. By improving our understanding of wetlands, we can learn how to better manage agricultural lands to keep these ecosystems healthy now and in the future.
Authors
Connor Johnson, Ana Maria Alvarez, Lauren Miranda, Colin Whitfield
Researchers
University of Saskatchewan