Master of Science, University of Toledo, 2019, Biology (Ecology)

Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata), an aquatic invasive plant, threatens to invade the Great Lakes Basin. Hydrilla creates dense webs that out competes native vegetation, reduces flow in canals, clogs intakes, and interferes with navigation of watercraft. Recreational boating has acted as a primary vector of spread for other aquatic invasive species and is expected be a primary vector for hydrilla spread. The goal of this project was to analyze the current distribution of hydrilla and identify the risk of introduction in the Great Lakes Basin via overland recreational boat transport. This goal was achieved by 1) assessing the current distribution of hydrilla to determine likely vectors of spread and 2) predicting the potential spread of hydrilla to the Great Lakes Basin via recreational watercraft and boat trailers and 3) identifying high risk areas for introduction. This analysis will aid in predicting and detecting the spread of invasive hydrilla into new waterways in the Great Lakes Basin.

Committee: Jonathan Bossenbroek PhD (Committee Chair); Richard Becker PhD (Committee Member); Daryl Moorhead PhD (Committee Member) Subjects: Environmental Science

Master of Science, University of Akron, 2005, Geology-Geophysics

Results of magnetic and gravity data forward modeling, combined with existing well-log data, geologic information and seismic data provide new insights into the structural complexity of the Precambrian basement beneath southern Ohio. These results support previous hypotheses regarding the spatial extent of the Grenville Front Tectonic Zone (GFTZ). The set of nine modeled profiles also provide greater evidence that the GFTZ consists of a 25-35 km wide zone of east dipping structures in the Precambrian basement extending from mid- to southern Ohio. A previously identified anorthosite body is modeled at mid- to upper-crustal depths, but having an approximately 8o eastward dip. Farther east, the previously identified, west-dipping Coshocton zone is modeled as a set of structures that deepen to the west from mid- to lower crustal depths beneath east-central Ohio. The modeling further supports the contention that the Coshocton zone is associated with the New York-Alabama magnetic lineament.

Committee: David Steer (Advisor) Subjects: Geophysics