Hometown: Hanover, NH

Degree seeking: M.S., Fisheries, Juneau

Year of expected graduation: 2005

Major professor: Dr. Michael S. Stekoll

Previous university: University of New Hampshire

Previous major: Marine Biology
 

Briefly describe your graduate project: The goal of this project (GC/04-02) was to determine the role of algal assemblages, both canopy-forming and understory kelps, as fish and invertebrate habitat in Southeast Alaska.

Why did you choose UAF? I chose UAF for a number of reasons; most importantly was my interest in this project. I was also excited about the opportunity to come to Alaska, as well as be involved with UAF's scientific diving program.

Favorite pastimes and hobbies: I spend a lot of my free time coaching local figure skaters at the Treadwell Arena in Juneau. I am also involved with the volunteer department of the Capital City Fire and Rescue as an EMT. I enjoy getting outdoors, hiking, kayaking, and running.

Most interesting educational experience so far: Three independent sampling methods were used to assess fish abundance within study sites: visual surveys, light traps, and SMURFs (standard monitoring units for recruitment of fish). In summer 2003, SMURF data showed fish biomass was greater at sites that contained an overlying canopy of Nereocystis luetkeana. Visual survey data showed an indirect effect of the canopy on schools of juvenile gadids; significantly greater schools were seen in areas that had been cleared of Nereocystis.

Fieldwork in the summer of 2004 focused on the effect of understory kelps on fish and invertebrate species composition. Light trap data show significantly greater abundances of total invertebrates at the bottom of sites that contain understory kelp species. As these invertebrates may serve as a major food source for fishes, they may be driving the location of the fishes seen in this study.

Future plans: I would like to continue research in the field of kelp ecology, working towards my Ph.D. I would love to conduct fieldwork in Sitka, Alaska, where the ecosystem is influenced by its location on the outer coast.

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