The University of Lethbridge has received $500,000 for a series of research projects. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

U of L receives $500,000 for environmental research

Apr 17, 2024 | 8:50 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Researchers at the University of Lethbridge (U of L) will use half a million dollars for a series of new studies.

Environment Minister Rebecca Shulz says the Government of Alberta will give a grant of $500,000 to allow the university to look into key environmental issues.

“We’re joining forces with the University of Lethbridge to look deeper into environmental issues impacting Southern Alberta. This grant will help us better maximize and manage Alberta’s water supply, reduce emissions, recover species at risk and protect the environment in the years ahead,” says Shulz. “This is a great example of government and university scientists working together.”

The three-year research grant will support eight collaborative research projects, focused on topics such as:

• The water storage potential of Alberta’s lakes
• Carbon storage and carbon sequestration potential of Alberta wetlands and terrestrial ecosystems
• The impact of fire on carbon storage in Alberta peatlands
• The diversity, abundance, and biomass of key insects in provincially protected areas

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Researchers will also explore emerging questions and issues effecting southern Alberta and the rest of the province, including:

• How habitat restoration and oil and gas site reclamation can assist in recovery of endangered sage grouse
• How changing weather patterns affect the productivity and carbon sequestration potential of native grassland and prairie wetlands
• How changing water temperature and contaminants may impact rainbow trout and brown trout populations in important fisheries like the Bow River
• How human recreation and other activities are affecting the Upper Oldman Watershed

U of L Vice President of Research Dr. Dena McMartin says partnerships like these help everyone to better understand and respond to current environmental challenges and opportunities.

“This collaborative grant administered by the Office of the Chief Scientist and the University of Lethbridge provides an important opportunity to fill critical knowledge gaps and help support development of Alberta’s next generation of environmental researchers,” says McMartin.

Each of the research projects will include both faculty and students and the university, as well as government staff.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now

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