Clarkson University is getting $24,917 for a first-of-its-kind project for the New York Great Lakes Basin and watershed. 

Clarkson Assistant Professor of Biology Andrew David will lead research to assess the connectivity patterns of two established invasive species of snails—one that impacts largemouth bass populations in New York lakes and rivers, and one that is now the largest, most abundant snail in Adirondack lakes. 

This work will create a foundation for identifying the vectors that promote aquatic invasive species (AIS) dispersal find potential barriers to help limit their spread. The project will be carried out in collaboration with Dr. Kate Cleary, Assistant Professor of Environmental Studies at SUNY Potsdam.

“The Great Lakes Research Consortium is pleased to support a wide range of projects from across New York State to address important issues including invasive species, harmful algal blooms, changing water levels in Lake Ontario, the identification of new and emerging contaminants, and the use of phosphorus sorption technology,” said Great Lakes Research Consortium Director Gregory L. Boyer. “These small grant awards support first-of-their-kind and basic foundational research that is essential if we are to properly manage and conserve New York’s critical freshwater resources.”