APUS Richard G. Trefry Archives | Home: Environmental Policy and Management

Alan John Lesko
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: July 2020
Capstone Instructor: Professor Jason Siniscalchi
Abstract:The proliferation of drones includes an expansion of quantity and sizes by the United States Air Force. This trend requires additional mitigation measures by the respective management program, Bird/Wildlife Strike Hazard program, and subsequent risk mitigation. Since 1985, wildlife strike data demonstrates a nearly $1 billion impact and over 117,000 incidents across a wide range of over 47 bird species. This data highlights the wide-spread issue to the United States Air Force, a significant drone operator in the Department of Defense. The impacts to aircraft and wildlife underpins the need for action related to drone proliferation and an increase in associated risks, and absent additional mitigation measures, an increase in stakeholder risk in the future. The identification of relevant assessment categories is addressed through a deliberate process in support of three management alternatives. Each management alternative criteria are assessed for attainability, cost, and feasibility. The resultant preferred alternative informs program managers and policy makers for consideration of inclusion into future revisions of the extant programs and efforts to mitigate risk among stakeholders.

Nicole Amanda Hammond
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: July 2020
Capstone Instructor: Professor Jason Siniscalchi
Abstract: Historically, women have utilized plant wisdom to support their communities, while community gardens have been shown to have broad benefits. This study explored whether involving female farmers living in Puerto Rico in community garden-based workshops could improve community resiliency through farmer led workshops at the community garden. The research project was done in partnership with local sustainability non-profit and with the support of many local farmers. A free Gardening Basics workshop was advertised on social media and hosted by a female farmer at the Community Learning Garden, located adjacent to the Farmer’s Market. After the workshop, a bilingual anonymous survey polled participants on a variety of sustainability related questions.
Most survey respondents indicated that they were interested in learning more about sustainability habits, especially local healthy food, and their motivation was personal health and resiliency. Overall responses showed that local, sustainable farming is important to people and most are interested in learning more resiliency skills.
A Community Learning Garden conveniently located for farmers and the community offers an ideal in-person platform for farmers to volunteer time to host a workshop and form a relationship with their community in a relaxed, hands-on atmosphere while sending attendees and online viewers home with practical skills.

Gregory D. Cantrell
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: February 2017
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Elizabeth D’Andrea
Abstract: Globally rare pine – oak barrens have historically provided some of the best early-transitional, open forest, and shrub-scrub habitats in eastern North America. Collectively known as disturbance-dependent habitats, many of these important areas have disappeared and been replaced by closed canopy pine or mixed-deciduous forests following decades of fire suppression and land-use changes. Loss of these critical habitats has contributed to the sharp population declines experienced by nearly 60 percent of North American disturbance-dependent bird species. This study examined the effects of habitat restoration and active land management techniques conducted by the New Jersey Audubon Society on the breeding bird community at Hovnanian Sanctuary in Berkeley Township, Ocean County, New Jersey. An analysis of breeding bird data collected from 2008 through 2016 demonstrated that the abundance of disturbance-dependent bird species increased in response to mechanical tree thinning and prescribed burning. Restored pine barren habitat also exhibited greater bird species diversity, while untreated control habitat experienced decreased diversity during the study period.

Stacey B. Colón
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Certificate-Graduate - Fish and Wildlife Management
Awarded: February 2017
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Kelly Reiss
Abstract: Perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) are a group of toxic, bioaccumulative and persistent compounds, not found in nature, that have been identified as emerging contaminants under the Defense Environmental Restoration Program (DERP). This research examines the history, properties and toxicity of PFCs, and investigates the effectiveness and implementability of proven and emerging technologies on the remediation of PFC contamination through the lens of the Navy Environmental Restoration Program (NERP) remedial action selection process. Recent literature on a broad sample of treatment technologies applied to perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) contamination was reviewed and compared in order to recommend a potential treatment option for PFC contamination at Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow, California. Challenges associated with treatment methods investigated include decomposition of PFOA and PFOS into byproducts with unknown toxicity; effects of additional constituents of the groundwater matrix on treatment effectiveness; and practical application of methods only tested in a laboratory setting. Pending further knowledge on PFCs, unknown consequences of treatment, and site specifics for MCLB Barstow, bottled water will be supplied to users of contaminated wells. Though there are several promising technologies being investigated in bench test studies, sorption using powdered or granulated activated carbon (GAC) is presently the most effective remedial option that is mature enough to apply to contamination at active remediation sites. However, the application of an active remedial technology to contaminated groundwater at MCLB Barstow is not recommended until the source and extent of the contamination are more fully understood.

Molly A. Henderson
Program: Masters in Environmental Policy and Management (MS)
Awarded: February 2017
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Elizabeth D’Andrea
Abstract: Cleaning up and redeveloping brownfield properties holds the promise of helping reverse urban sprawl trends, boosting tax revenues, creating jobs, and reducing impacts to human health and the environment through contaminant reduction. However, despite the seemingly limitless and obvious benefits of redeveloping brownfields, there are considerable challenges faced by communities and developers. Uncertainties about the extent of contamination, regulatory oversight, and lingering legal liability lead to fears that costs associated with brownfield revitalization will exceed the market value of the property. In order to help combat urban sprawl, it is necessary to make brownfield redevelopment as appealing as possible to owners, lenders, and developers. The increasing demand for developable land justifies the need for implementing the most sustainable and sensible approach to brownfield redevelopment. Building from previous research, this thesis analyzes key factors inferred to contribute to the success of state Voluntary Cleanup Programs (VCPs) and evaluates statistical data on the number of brownfield sties and successfully completed brownfield cleanups in select states. The results of the analyses performed confirm the complexity of the issue of attracting developers to revitalize brownfields and highlight the need to craft VCPs in a manner best suited for each states’ specific needs.

Katherine L. McConnell
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: February 2017
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Elizabeth D’Andrea
Abstract: Wildlife reintroductions are a commonly used conservation method for recovery of an extirpated species. The rate of success or failures for this method have not been thoroughly researched, therefore the findings of this study will measure plausibility of successfully returning an extirpated species to the wild. A combination of qualitative research and quantitative data was utilized to test hypotheses through review of existing documentation and statistics related to the area of study. Research was conducted on: American red wolf (Canis rufus), masked bobwhite (Colinus virginianus ridgwayi), and Colorado pikeminnow (Ptychocheilus lucius). Case studies were utilized for comparative analysis of successes and failures related to reintroduction of each species. Numerical data of populations (best available) from pre-extirpation periods were compared against current trending numerical data of populations for each species. Careful review of historical data and ongoing recovery plans revealed trends in limited success of returning and establishing sustainable wild populations. Two recovery plans have begun to halt all rewilding efforts and focus will be given to captive populations. Based on the findings of the study, efforts to return extirpated species to the wild have a high plausibility of failure and are not the best allocation of limited conservation resources.

Kendra Rembold
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: February 2017
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Elizabeth D’Andrea
Abstract: The Slate Belt Region of South Carolina has been the subject of gold exploration and mining activity for nearly two centuries. Renewed interest occurred in the 1980s but abandonment by mine owners and the subsequent listing of two mine sites on the National Priorities List reveals a breakdown in environmentally responsible mining practices. A compilation of data and reports on those sites was examined to identify trends and provide a foundation for a risk analysis that can be used to assess risks of future mining operations. Throughout this process, it was discovered that water contamination by metals and acid mine drainage are the most common issues South Carolina faces. Inputting this information into in a risk analysis can provide the state with the necessary information needed to mitigate and plan for future impacts.

Verma V. Villegas
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: November 2016
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Elizabeth D’Andrea
Abstract: Migratory animals travel along specific corridors and through landscapes across state borders and countries. Due to urban sprawl and fragmentation, these migrants have lost much-needed habitat along these corridors, which they have traveled for centuries. With the use of Low Impact Development and Ecosystem Restoration strategies, many of these landscapes along migrant corridors can become connected again naturally. Additionally, these strategies will promote ecosystem services that benefit the human population. There is a positive relationship between the restoration of natural areas, human welfare, and wildlife biodiversity. This paper shows that relationship through a literature review and a Habitat Sustainability Index analysis. More studies are indicated in order to provide a stronger relationship between these subjects.

Trevor C. Watts
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: February 2017
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Elizabeth D’Andrea
Abstract: The importance of the Florida Keys as a stopover area for migratory bird species can be observed from both the abundance and diversity of species throughout the course of annual migrations. In an effort to document the changes that will likely affect certain species that utilize the Keys during migration, I have investigated observation data collected from citizens through Cornell Bird Observatory’s eBird database (eBird Basic Dataset, 2016) and the Florida Keys Hawkwatch (Florida Keys Hawkwatch, 2016) records on several species found throughout the archipelago, as well as changes in land cover over the last several decades. Multiple species have been observed arriving to the Florida Keys earlier in both spring and fall migration periods, while some have shown later departure dates. This extension of species length of stay reiterates the importance of the Florida Keys as an integral stopover location for migratory birds. However, as development and climate change continue to threaten coastal and low lying island habitats, the importance for strategic and predictive management is essential to migratory species conservation.

Renee M. Bacon
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: February 2016
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Elizabeth D'Andrea
Abstract: The pressure that Americans and businesses feel to ‘go green’ and live sustainably has grown over the last 50 years. Political movements, treaties between countries and the media have highlighted the need for Developed Countries to curb their use of fossil fuels; reduce, reuse, and recycle more; drive more efficient vehicles; manage their land more sustainably; consume more environmentally friendly products; and eat in a more sustainable fashion. This mounting pressure has steered residential owners toward the purchase of more energy efficient and natural products for their homes. The main issue is whether or not the average American household can afford all of the technologies and methods that are available at this point in time. The cost to implement all key energy efficient measures within the average American household appears to be out of most households reach and financial capabilities. It will be up to the average American to pay more for environmentally-friendly products, as well as use what little savings they can gather to invest into sustainable technologies within their home. Most Americans will find this very difficult to do—choices will need to be made about technologies that offer the biggest effects and positive payout in the end.

Daniel A. Bauerlein
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: August 2016
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Elizabeth D'Andrea
Abstract: The San Joaquin Valley (SJV) is the largest producer of dairy in California and the United States. The SJV consists of eight counties which held approximately 1.5 million dairy cows in 2014. The region continually fails to meet air quality standards for particulate matter under 2.5 micrometers (PM2.5) set by the Environmental Protection Agency under the Clean Air Act. Previous studies have shown that the presence of dairy cows is a contributing factor increasing the amount of PM2.5in the air. This study investigates the relationship between the number of dairy cows, dairies, and cows per dairy with the number of days where PM2.5 was the dominant pollutant (PM2.5 days) and the concentration of PM2.5 throughout the eight counties in the SJV. Using the Spearman’s Rank Correlation Coefficient and the data collected from 2002-2014, the paired data sets were tested for association. Fresno, Kings, and Stanislaus Counties showed a strong, positive association between the number of cows and PM2.5 days while Kern and Merced Counties showed a moderate, positive association. This suggests that in these counties as the number of dairy cows increased the number of PM2.5 days also increased. This also suggests that more dairy cows within a county contribute to increased PM2.5 in the air. Other associations observed in the results of this study were different throughout the counties suggesting that no obvious relationship exists. This study could be approved upon by collecting PM2.5 data directly from dairy farms and strategic areas across the county rather than depending on centralized air monitoring sites.

Benjamin L. Davis
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: February 2016
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Jason Siniscalchi
Abstract: This study aimed to determine whether changes in climate would influence the quality and quantity of New York wine grape growing regions by analyzing historical temperature and precipitation levels and forecasting future levels. It was shown that the climate in New York and within New York climate divisions that encompass federally accepted New York American Viticultural Areas has changed over time; specifically average minimum, average maximum, and overall average temperatures have gradually increased since the year 1895 with statistical significance. The cool New York climate is normally on the edge of acceptability for supporting many of the grape varieties that produce high quality wine. Results of statistical forecasting conducted in this study revealed a potential for the future quantity or quality of New York grape growing regions to expand and the possibility of incorporating more high quality wine producing grape varieties in New York viticulture because of gradually warming temperatures.

Jill Low
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: November 2016
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Elizabeth D’Andrea
Abstract: Global water shortages, challenges managing urban stormwater runoff and heat island effect, decline in food security; all of these problems pose threats to human and environmental health. Research has shown that collection of residential rooftop runoff is a viable source for irrigation of edible crops. Urban agriculture has been shown to have benefits such as mitigating stormwater runoff and urban heat island effect, alleviating urban food deserts, and having an overall positive impact on communities and human and environmental health. Many cities are incorporating urban agriculture into their zoning codes in order to allow for growth of these endeavors, and also allow stormwater for use in irrigation. Colorado Springs has been challenged with water rights disputes, however is now beginning to allow more freedom in the collection and use of residential rooftop runoff. Assessment of challenges against the benefits of community gardens and stormwater irrigation will show that stormwater is a viable irrigation source for community gardens in Colorado Springs.

John M. Lynch
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: February 2016
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Elizabeth D'Andrea
Abstract: Potential ecological change along in the Mekong River Basin do to the rapid development of hydropower is well-researched. However, little is known about socio-political factors that are contributing to the creation of numerous dams along the Mekong River and major tributaries. A quantitative analysis of precipitation amounts and water levels in the Upper Mekong River Basin attempts to establish a relationship between dams in China and alterations to water levels through the Lower Mekong River. A qualitative analysis is used to explore the political and economic influences that contribute to additional dam construction within the Lower Mekong River Basin that threatens the ecological stasis of the region. Findings validate predictive modeling used to establish a relationship between upstream dams and downstream water levels. Findings also reveal how governments in the region are investing in hydropower in order to promote economic growth in the absence of sound environmental planning or management strategies. Consequently, the lack of environmental policies as well as limitations in regional, trans-boundary governance are putting the food, economic and social security of millions of inhabitants in the LMB, particularly in Cambodia, at risk.

Valerie A. Walker
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: August 2016
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Elizabeth D'Andrea
Abstract: Privatization of former military installation sites has been a unique approach for cleaning up former military installation sites. This thesis performs an analysis to determine the ideal economic criteria that would encourage private developers and the local community to carry out the environmental cleanup at former military installation sites undergoing the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) process. To answer this question, current legislation related to privatization of former military installation cleanup sites was examined. The former McClellan Air Force Base (AFB) was considered as a case study to develop a framework for selecting sites that are more ideal for privatized cleanup. Data were collected from six former military installation sites located throughout California related to surrounding property values, connectivity opportunities, physical conditions of the former military installation, the property’s allowable purposes, and the extent of remediation required. These data were used to evaluate and analyze the redevelopment economic opportunity through privatization of each site. Based upon the semi-quantitative evaluations, privatized cleanup is recommended for all the study sites, with Fort Ord containing the most desirable qualities.

Katherine L. McConnell
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: February 2017
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Elizabeth D’Andrea
Abstract: Wildlife reintroductions are a commonly used conservation method for recovery of an extirpated species. The rate of success or failures for this method have not been thoroughly researched, therefore the findings of this study will measure plausibility of successfully returning an extirpated species to the wild. A combination of qualitative research and quantitative data was utilized to test hypotheses through review of existing documentation and statistics related to the area of study. Research was conducted on: American red wolf (Canis rufus), masked bobwhite (Colinus virginianus ridgwayi), and Colorado pikeminnow (Ptychocheilus lucius). Case studies were utilized for comparative analysis of successes and failures related to reintroduction of each species. Numerical data of populations (best available) from pre-extirpation periods were compared against current trending numerical data of populations for each species. Careful review of historical data and ongoing recovery plans revealed trends in limited success of returning and establishing sustainable wild populations. Two recovery plans have begun to halt all rewilding efforts and focus will be given to captive populations. Based on the findings of the study, efforts to return extirpated species to the wild have a high plausibility of failure and are not the best allocation of limited conservation resources.

Adrian Brene
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: November 2015
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Elizabeth D'Andrea
Abstract: Treatment of municipal wastewater has become a global concern, and is expected to increase as water scarcity continues to increase. The efficient and effective treatment of wastewater is increasingly a subject of debate and contention. The present research statistically compares algal, aerobic, and anaerobic treatment methods, as based on data from prior research, to determine which are more efficient in removing certain nutrients from municipal wastewater. Chemical oxygen demand (COD), total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) removal data was acquired from various contemporary studies and analyzed using ANOVA tests and T-Tests to determine if there was a statistically significant difference in the removal of those nutrients between the 3 treatment categories. While some tests proved inconclusive, it was found that the aerobic treatment method generally removed COD more quickly and effectively than the other methods, while the algal treatment method generally removed TN and TP more quickly and effectively than the other treatment methods.

Laura Lee Clark
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: August 2015
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Elizabeth D'Andrea
Abstract: In 2008, collisions were estimated to be between one and two million per year. In 2012, over 1.2 million insurable claims were filed for automobile damages resulting from wildlife vehicle collisions with ungulates. The wildlife collision problem continues on our highways. Collision data does not include uninsured claims, medium or small vertebrae, birds, amphibians or reptiles. Mitigation programs to reduce collisions are difficult to develop and assess with existing collision data, and collisions have increased since 2008. Eco-logical transportation planning and adaptive conservation management disciplines both require comprehensive information for improved decision making. This paper developed strategies for measuring quantitative losses as well as defining qualitative consequences of wildlife vehicle collisions. Pearson product moment analysis demonstrated a high correlation between hunting harvest takes and wildlife vehicle collision rates. A historical trend index, or C-Value, was developed for analysis of collision and harvest rates for each state. The index values demonstrated states where collision and harvest rates increased, decreased, or stabilized from 2007 to 2012. Examples from selected states whose index showed collision rate improvements provided insights for harvest management as a mitigation strategy. This analysis also demonstrated the need for additional data on collision occurrences, specifically for road and highway collision locations. Geospatial tools with enhanced collision location data points will facilitate essential collaborative conservation management and transportation planning mitigation efforts. Enhanced data will provide the means for targeted mitigation programs to increase compatibility of automobile transportation within our ecological system, ultimately, increasing public welfare and safety.

Michael J. Coffey
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: August 2015
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Carol Pollio
Abstract: The purposes of this research were to analyze the available temperature data from cold climate habitats of Midwest algific talus slopes and to develop an ecosystem monitoring method that is less destructive on the delicate plant community. The use of temperature data as a monitoring tool was selected to engage stakeholders and encourage collaboration between private landowners, citizen scientists, and natural resource professionals. Collaboration is critical, because most Midwest algific talus slopes are on private land. The results of this demonstration indicated that climate change has not reduced the potential for cold air production on Midwest algific talus slopes. More extreme climate change predictions have the potential to impact this ecosystem. A temperature monitoring network and web based data reporting system would allow for the long term surveillance of the ecosystem and provide a framework for climate change response and restoration planning.

David G. Jones
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: August 2015
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Elizabeth D'Andrea
Abstract: The purpose of this research is to identify the link between corn-based ethanol production demand in the United States and the increased propensity for pesticide use within large industrial corn cropping systems. Methodology used in this study incorporates increases in herbicide tolerant corn plantings, increases in overall corn planted acres, and trends in corn ending stocks seen in the United States in response to ethanol demand. A correlation between each variable and ethanol production trends will provide insight into their relationship. Findings in this study show positive correlations between specific variables and ethanol production trends. Increasing reliance upon corn crop to facilitate the production of ethanol will likely cause increasing levels of pesticide applications in the future to cope with market volatility as a result of reduced carryover amounts and increases in monocrop corn acreage. New management strategies will be required to reduce the need for greater pesticide inputs to meet ethanol demands.

Kristen R. Keene
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: November 2015
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Molly Whitworth
Abstract: Climate change and land use patterns in coastal regions can have a significant impact on adjoining ecosystems, such as coastal wetlands, and the selection of restoration strategies used to restore a degraded system is likewise influenced by these factors. Determining how climate change and surrounding land use impacts coastal wetland restoration decisions was investigated in the Chesapeake Bay region of the United States using three case studies which exhibited different surrounding land use patterns: urban, commercial agricultural production, and recreational. The study addresses the following: the impacts surrounding land use practices have on adjacent coastal wetland systems; the relationship between surrounding land use patterns and selected coastal wetland restoration strategies; the types of restoration strategies that can be applied to account for climate change impacts, based on surrounding land use patterns; and whether or not current wetland restoration techniques exhibit long-term effectiveness considering climate change impacts. Study findings highlight how surrounding land use patterns influenced the selection of coastal wetland restoration strategies and the ability of a wetland system to account for climate change impacts. Recommendations related to localized approaches, landscape-level approaches, and targeted adaptation measures are discussed in an effort to provide guidance to natural resource managers and urban planners.

Christopher D. McCord
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: November 2015
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Elizabeth D'Andrea
Abstract: Non-native invasive weeds have exploded throughout northern Sierra Nevada recently, coinciding with extraordinary drought conditions. Their presences are affronting local ecosystem structure, function, and biodiversity by outcompeting native plant communities. This paper explores the correlations between recent drought conditions in northern Sierra Nevada and the increased presence of three non-native invasive weed species in Nevada County, California -- Carduus nutans (musk thistle), Centaurea stoebe (spotted knapweed), and Chondrilla juncea (rush skeletonweed). This study utilizes Pearson’s product-moment correlation coefficient to quantify covariance between the numbers of observed infestation sites of these three species and decreased precipitation, increased temperatures, and total snowfall amounts. Results show observations of these species positively correlate with increased temperatures, and negatively correlate with precipitation departures from normal and reduced total snowfall amounts, over 15-year and 6-year timeframes. This correlative analysis serves to advance invasion ecology’s understanding of the complex relationships between regional climatic changes and non-native plant species invasions.

Anne M. Paz
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: 8-25-2014
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Elizabeth D'Andrea
Abstract: This research focuses on Arizona’s top agriculture commodities in order to better understand the environmental impact of agriculture in Arizona compared to the rest of the United States. A single state agriculture analysis allows for a tailored approach to sustainable agriculture research. This type of approach is important, because each state has a unique agriculture climate with many different characteristics of production. The first phase of this research determines the top agriculture crop and livestock commodities in Arizona and compares them to the United States. An agriculture footprint is calculated using this information, which highlights the areas where Arizona has the largest impact within the United States. The production methods of the items with the largest agriculture footprint are then analyzed in order to determine the specific environmental impacts associated with producing these top commodities. The final phase of the research will include an analysis of the production methods determined in the second phase of research with current information on sustainability. This will allow for a determination of Arizona’s agriculture sustainability and where they could possibly improve in order to protect the environment.

Melissa C. Seguin
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: August 2015
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Elizabeth D'Andrea
Abstract: This study addresses the growing problems posed by PPCP disposal and the resulting challenges faced by consumers, water treatment experts, environmentalists, and scientists. While other studies have addressed some of these challenges, this study investigates the true root cause of incorrect disposal practices, concentrating on prevention rather than on symptoms of this issue. This study examines current literature on the manufacturing, packaging, and marketing of PPCPs to help identify potential gaps that contribute to poor disposal practices and ultimately introduce risks to humans and the environment. Finally, available studies, product information and other literature are examined using a content analysis to code for key concepts and ideas. Using the information gathered, a root cause analysis indicates gaps in consumer PPCP disposal practices are a direct result of limited consumer knowledge. Additionally, manufacturer-provided product information and advertising were key factors influencing levels of consumer awareness. Consequently, consumers were uninformed on the human and environmental threats posed by incorrectly disposing of PPCPs.

Terri Mitchell
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: January 2014
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Molly Whitworth
Abstract: Land management in Alaska has become multi-layered with federal, state, and local agencies regulating different resources. Under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) of 1971, 220,000 acres of surface title around Barrow, Alaska were conveyed to the Ukpeaġvik Iñupiat Corporation (UIC) as a for-profit entity. The land granted to UIC is approximately 95% wetlands. Due to recent offshore leasing the need for housing, utilities, and transportation expansion has fallen on the major landowner of the area, UIC. Development of wetlands in Alaska, and specifically endangered species nesting ground wetlands has two components that UIC currently does not control: reasonable mitigation cost and project control due to the required approval of the US Army Corps of Engineers and the Fish and Wildlife Service to proceed. This paper investigated how UIC could have effective management input of wetlands resources. UIC can develop self- governing opportunities to restore their authority in the management of the lands granted to them by the US government by creating a co-management group with state and federal agencies that regulate wetland resources and creating a UIC-owned wetlands mitigation bank on UIC land.

Kyle Stoddard Runyan Young
Program: Environmental Policy and Management: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Science (MS)
Awarded: November 2013
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Jason M. Siniscalchi
Abstract: By examining social discounting through a neoclassical economic lens, this study analyzes the ecological and resource impact, and the empirical flaws of contemporary discounting methods. This study then conducts a neoclassical analysis of economic data relevant to social discounting, including inflation rates, other-than-inflationary resource cost increases, supply/scarcity-derived cost increases, substitutability of money for resources, and intergenerational valuations. The shortcomings of contemporary discounting are quantifiably resolved using correction factors, which are derived from the aforementioned data analyses. The correction factors are incorporated into a modified social discounting equation. Ultimately, neoclassical economic principles are examined for suitability in improving ecological sustainability by reducing social discount rates. The data analyzed in this study indicate that contemporary discount rates are overvalued, leading to the undervaluation of future ecological benefits for present day cost-benefit decisions. Additionally, the modified social discounting equation yields a successful means of improving social discount rates towards ecological sustainability, through a descriptive, neoclassical economic approach.