Environmental Field Studies – Watershed

The LAM environmental research group conducts field studies to gain a better understanding of natural and mining influences on groundwater and surface waters (e.g. streams, rivers, lakes, wetlands) across northeastern Minnesota.

Sulfide minerals in mine wastes are a source of sulfate to surrounding watersheds. As these and other forms of sulfur move through the environment, they participate in various chemical and biological process. The LAM environmental research group has partnered with industry, state, and academic researchers to investigate the potential relationship between sulfate loading from taconite mining areas and the production of methylmercury in the St. Louis River Watershed.