This research uses freshwater mussels as bioindicators to investigate water quality in Darby Creek. Community science data revealed links between elevated chloride pollution, likely from road salt, and declining mussel populations. The discovery of a healthy mussel population highlights both the importance of local monitoring and opportunities for targeted watershed restoration.
2026
2025
This research investigates atmospheric trace elements as indicators of pollution sources, focusing on toxic metal emissions from urban firestorms during the Eaton Canyon and Palisades fires. Elevated airborne lead concentrations prompted the creation of Phoenix, a community-based post-fire air monitoring network designed to track hazardous dust resuspension during debris cleanup.