Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

One of the greatest challenges of our time is finding sustainable methods to produce enough food for a growing global population. A key issue linked to food production systems is nutrient loading to surrounding ecosystems, which can lead to harmful algal blooms and oxygen depletion. To address these challenges, we are requesting funding for a high-throughput, low detection limit flow injection analysis system to measure nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations, along with a YSI field sonde to monitor environmental parameters (e.g., conductivity, temperature, oxygen, and algal pigments). This equipment is essential for our research on nutrient dynamics in agriculture and net pen aquaculture, allowing us to develop mitigation strategies to reduce ecosystem impacts. Monitoring water and nutrient movement in agriculture is complex due to spatial and temporal variability driven by the landscape's structure and environmental conditions. Similarly, in rainbow trout net pen aquaculture in the Laurentian Great Lakes, nutrient inputs fluctuate with production cycles, seasons, water movement, and lake morphology. Both fields require high spatial and temporal resolution of nutrient dynamics to accurately assess their impacts on ecosystems. However, limited research on high-resolution nutrient sampling-especially in net pen aquaculture-hinders progress. Our current capacity to analyze water samples is restricted by the high costs and delays of outsourcing nutrient analysis, and the low concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus in many samples require very sensitive analyzers. These tools will enhance our ability to study and manage nutrient impacts in both agricultural and aquaculture systems. The benefit to the overall research field is significant, as few studies incorporate high-resolution sampling of nutrient concentrations in food production systems. This equipment will enable us to fill this gap and provide essential data for more effective management. The benefits to Canada are substantial. Food production is central to the Canadian economy and food security. Land-based farming is vital, but the effects of agricultural practices on groundwater quality are not well understood. Meanwhile, rainbow trout aquaculture is poised for growth, offering economic benefits. However, questions remain surrounding the effects of aquaculture on nutrient dynamics, and therefore the sustainability of the practice. Our research will inform policies and management strategies to mitigate the environmental impacts of these systems, promoting sustainable growth. The University of Guelph, known as Canada's food university, is a national leader in studying food production systems. We are leaders in the study of freshwater fish farming and water quality research. With this equipment, we can fortify our strengths and ensure that food production in Canada grows sustainably and responsibly.