Acid deposition in the form of rain and other precipitation has changed the structure and function of aquatic and terrestrial environments in the Adirondack Mountain Region (Adirondacks) of New York State. This region is particularly sensitive to this type of air pollution.  As acid deposition, which includes acidic rain and other forms of precipitation, percolates through forest soil, hydrogen ions displace other positively charged ions, such as calcium, which then tend to be lost from the biologically active upper soil layers.  Calcium is an essential plant and animal nutrient.

We are studying how calcium availability in soils and surface waters affects organisms in areas impacted by acid deposition. Concurrently, we are estimating changes in the chemical parameters of soils at sites in the Adirondacks for which historical data has been obtained.

The research is a collaborative, interdisciplinary effort between Alfred University's Environmental Studies &  Geology departments, and Colgate University's Biology & Geology departments.  It is funded by the C-RUI division of biological infrastructure (National Science Foundation).

A model of the processes examined in the acid deposition project.  Rich April (Colgate Geology) and Michele Hluchy (Alfred Environmental Studies) are directing work in area 1.  Randy Fuller (Colgate Biology) is working in area 2.  Tim McCay (Colgate Biology) is working in area 3.