McQuaid Lab
highlighting research and collaboration in lake ecology, water quality, ecotoxicology and freshwater biology through UNH
Center for Freshwater Biology
The Center for Freshwater Biology (CFB) is a participatory science and research-based collaboration to support freshwater research and educate the public about toxic cyanobacteria and water quality of lakes. On-lake training with monitors helps the public identify and recognize the signs of cyanobacteria and eutrophication of lakes. The CFB works with communities and volunteers on serious issues such as the bioaccumulation of toxins in the aquatic environment, specifically how cyanotoxins transfer in water, air and food webs. The CFB specializes in lake ecology research and collaborates with researchers in epidemiology of disease in humans, pets and wildlife.
Ecotoxicology Research
The McQuaid Lab offers independent study to undergraduates students through the Department of Biological Sciences (MEFB 795).
Lakes Lay Monitoring Program
The NH Lakes Lay Monitoring Program (LLMP) is one of the longest-running citizen science projects based at the University of New Hampshire. Begun as a grassroots effort to monitor and protect water quality in 1979, the program evolved to assist over 100 lakes through the years. The LLMP engages with local watershed organizations and community volunteers, to collect, analyze and share valuable data on water quality of lakes of New Hampshire. Data from the program informs lake management and community decision-making, and aims to empower local people with accurate information about their lakes. Volunteers become local experts who share water quality findings with their neighbors, to their broader conservation commissions and lake watershed associations through direct presentations, written articles, and shared highlight reports. A public data platform shares the historical data and reports with volunteers and other interested community groups.