Lemna Minor as an Ecological Tool for Vermont Farmers

Conference Year

January 2020

Abstract

Agricultural runoff leads to elevated nutrient levels and toxic algae blooms in Vermont’s waterways. Previous work has found that Lemna Minor, commonly known as Duckweed, is effective at removing phosphorus and nitrogen from water and can be harvested for use as a high-protein feed for animals. I will specifically examine Duckweed’s potential to improve water quality while also supporting farmers’ livelihoods by analyzing case studies and exploring this intervention in the context of climate change’s impacts on Vermont. Through this meta-analysis I hope to better understand the ecological feasibility of Duckweed in Vermont agriculture.

Primary Faculty Mentor Name

Professor Beverley Wemple

Status

Undergraduate

Student College

College of Arts and Sciences

Program/Major

Environmental Sciences

Primary Research Category

Food & Environment Studies

Abstract only.

Share

COinS
 

Lemna Minor as an Ecological Tool for Vermont Farmers

Agricultural runoff leads to elevated nutrient levels and toxic algae blooms in Vermont’s waterways. Previous work has found that Lemna Minor, commonly known as Duckweed, is effective at removing phosphorus and nitrogen from water and can be harvested for use as a high-protein feed for animals. I will specifically examine Duckweed’s potential to improve water quality while also supporting farmers’ livelihoods by analyzing case studies and exploring this intervention in the context of climate change’s impacts on Vermont. Through this meta-analysis I hope to better understand the ecological feasibility of Duckweed in Vermont agriculture.