Research summary
Climate change, intensifying land use, and pollution all have an impact on watersheds. They are degrading our water resources, threatening water security, and costing Canadians millions of dollars annually to manage. As Canada Research Chair in Aquatic Environments, Dr. Matthew Bogard is exploring how aquatic ecosystems in the Canadian prairies—such as lakes, streams and reservoirs—are affected by these human activities.
By integrating biogeochemical and ecological approaches across scales—from tiny microbial habitats to the entire prairie region—he and his research team are identifying how various stressors are reshaping the cycling of nutrients, organic matter and potent greenhouse gases. Ultimately, their work will help address critical issues, such as the overabundance of nutrients in watersheds (eutrophication) and water quality loss. It will also support the move toward sustainable agriculture and nature-based climate solutions.