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Ecology
Author(s): Danielle L. Clay, Marcelo D. Serpe, Stephen J. Novak, and James F. Smith
Title: Homoploid hybrid speciation in a rare endemic Castilleja from Idaho
Abstract:
Interspecific hybridization has played a pivotal role driving both extinctions and speciation events within
angiosperms. The combination of interspecific hybridization and allopolyploidy has significantly contributed to the
evolution of the genus Castilleja. The diploid Castilleja christii is a highly fertile rare endemic species, and
widespread on 200 acres at the summit of Mt. Harrison, ID. We provide evidence for the homoploid hybrid
speciation of Castilleja christii between congeneric diploids Castilleja miniata and C. linariifolia, using molecular
and morphological analyses. Some individuals of Castilleja christii that were initially thought to be hybrids between
C. christii and either C. miniata or C. linariifolia were found to be transgressive for several morphological traits
based on ANOVA analyses and Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test statistics. Using the single copy nuclear gene waxy,
all Castilleja christii individuals were found to share the genomes of C. miniata and C. linariifolia. All individuals
of C. christii, C. miniata and C. linariifolia sampled from Mt. Harrison were identified as diploids using
chromosome squashes. Most individuals of C. miniata were also diploid with the exception of one subpopulation
that was octoploid. This study is the first to report homoploid hybrid speciation in the genus Castilleja, adding to
the understanding of the complex evolutionary history in this group. Further, this research will assist land managers
with conservation strategies that may contribute to the species protection of Castilleja christii, which to date has not
been explored scientifically.
Author(s): Micah Scholer, Jim Belthoff, and Matthias Leu
Title: Co-occurrence patterns of cavity nesting owls and woodpeckers in the Boise National
Forest
Abstract:
Flammulated Owls (Otus flammeolus) and Northern Saw-whet Owls (Aegolius acadicus) are small, secondary
cavity nesters which require formation of natural cavities or, more commonly, cavities created by woodpeckers for
nesting opportunities. We investigated co-occurrence patterns of cavity nesting owls and woodpeckers in the Boise
National Forest. Specifically, we hypothesized that cavity nesting owl occupancy was conditional on woodpecker
presence. To evaluate this hypothesis we located owls by broadcasting conspecific vocalizations during nighttime
hours at point-count locations (N=150) during 2009 and 2010. We surveyed for woodpeckers at these same
locations during daylight hours in a similar manner playing broadcasts for five common woodpecker species. We
simultaneously modeled occupancy as a function of snag characteristics and species co-occurrence while accounting
for imperfect detection (i.e., the possibility that an individual may go undetected during surveying even when
present) using the software program PRESENCE. We found a negative relationship between the estimated number
of snags per hectare (12.5 ± 0.2) and occurrence of both owl species, while owl occurrence was positively related to
average (35.17 ± 0.08) diameter at breast height of snags measured within 400 m radius plots centered on pointcount locations. There was no support for the hypothesis that cavity nesting owl occupancy was conditional on the
presence of woodpeckers. Therefore, despite the potential value in understanding the nocturnal owl community by
examining the diurnal woodpecker community, current results indicate that there are not strong enough relationships
to warrant such an approach.
Author(s): Matt Schmasow & Ian C. Robertson
Title: Diet selection by Owyhee harvester ants (Pogonomyrmex salinus) and its consequences
for slickspot peppergrass (Lepidium pappilliferum), a threatened mustard endemic to
southwestern Idaho
Abstract:
Owyhee harvester ants (Pogonomyrmex salinus) are generalist granivores native to sagebrush steppe habitat in the
Great Basin and Snake River Plain, including areas occupied by slickspot peppergrass (Lepidium papilliferum), a
threatened mustard endemic to southwestern Idaho. Recent studies have shown that P. salinus is a voracious seed
predator of slickspot peppergrass in areas where their habitats overlap, and suggest that these ants may pose a threat
to the long term viability of the species (White & Robertson 2009). To better understand the importance of L.
papilliferum in the diet of P. salinus, we compared the diet of P. salinus relative to the availability of major seed
types (i.e., Bromus tectorum, Poa secunda, Sisymbrium altissimum and L. papilliferum) located within 20 m of ant
colonies. We found that Owyhee harvester ants exhibited distinct seasonal patterns in seed resource use. Poa
secunda seeds were overrepresented in the diet of ants early in the season. However, although Poa remained
available throughout the season, ants shifted to smaller seed types (e.g., Sisymbrium, Lepidium) once these seeds
became available later in the season. Bromus seeds, despite being abundant throughout the season, comprised only a
small component of the ant’s diet. Our results further suggest that the reduced handling time associated with smaller
seed types may also play a role in resource selection by P. salinus.
Author(s): Pamela Bond
Title: LiDAR-derived height and cover estimation of sagebrush steppe shrub communities
Abstract:
Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) and multispectral imagery are useful tools for studying sagebrush steppe
vegetation. My research explored the utility of LiDAR data and LiDAR Landsat 5 Thematic Mapper data fusion for
classifying the shrub communities of a sagebrush steppe ecosystem, encompassed by the USDA ARS Reynolds
Creek Experimental Watershed in southwestern Idaho. The objectives of my research were to: 1) quantify the
correlation between field-based and LiDAR-derived shrub heights, and 2) determine if LiDAR-derived vegetation
heights can be used to accurately classify the varying shrub community types within a sagebrush steppe ecosystem
into appropriate categories (low, moderate, high, and tree) using linear discriminant analysis, 3) determine if LiDAR
data can be used to estimate shrub canopy cover, and 4) determine if LiDAR fusion with Landsat 5 TM data further
improves canopy cover estimations. A simple linear regression of field- versus LiDAR-derived maximum vegetation
height yielded an R2 of 0.78. Linear discriminant analysis of the categorical classification based on LiDAR-derived
height values had an overall accuracy of 0.703. Compared to field-derived estimates, LiDAR generally
underestimated shrub canopy cover with an average root mean square error of 17.15 and mean error of -8.71 across
all study areas. LiDAR and Landsat 5 TM fusion increases the strength of the relationship between field- and
LiDAR-derived shrub canopy cover from R2 0.4028 to 0.523. These results indicate that a LiDAR-based approach
to sagebrush steppe classification and canopy cover estimation has the potential to serve useful tool for rangeland
managers.
Author(s): Amy C. Ulappa, J.S. Forbey, L. A. Shipley, R. Kelsey, J.L. Rachlow, and A.L. Price
Title: Nutritional and chemical factors shaping the “foodscape” of a dietary specialist herbivore,
the pygmy rabbit
Abstract:
Herbivory is a foraging strategy that poses special challenges, which can be partially addressed by selecting high
quality forage among plants that vary nutritionally or chemically. Although several studies have demonstrated that
herbivores prefer diets with the highest nutrient and lowest chemical constituents, these studies are primarily
confined to laboratory feeding trials because observing diet selection in free ranging herbivores is difficult. Our field
observations demonstrated that pygmy rabbits (Brachylagus idahoensis), facultative specialists on sagebrush
(Artemisia tridentata), forage on specific sagebrush plants more than others within a foraging patch. We used this
system to test the hypothesis that sagebrush plants heavily browsed by pygmy rabbits are nutritionally superior and
preferred to rarely browsed plants. We collected samples from pairs of sagebrush with high and low levels of
browsing at 20 active pygmy rabbit burrows. First, we used a choice feeding trial to validate preference for heavily
browsed plants. Captive pygmy rabbits voluntarily consumed 2.4 times more leaves from sagebrush with high
levels of browsing. Second, we compared total and digestible crude protein and monoterpene amounts between
sagebrush plants exhibiting high and low levels of browsing using a paired design. Amounts of total and digestible
crude protein were both higher and several monoterpenes were lower in highly browsed sagebrush relative to the
rarely browsed plants. Predictive foraging models generated with this study can be used to map areas of palatable
sagebrush across the landscape, termed “foodscapes”.
Geosciences
Author(s): Andrew Austreng, Shawn Benner, Jennifer Pierce, and Marie-Anne de Graaff
Title: Massive changes in the carbon budget associated with sagebrush restoration
Abstract:
Sagebrush-steppe communities of the western U.S. have undergone widespread invasion of non-native cheatgrass,
often following wildfire. One reclamation strategy that has shown long-term success in replacing cheatgrass is
seeding certain bunchgrass species such as crested wheatgrass. This approach allows the eventual reestablishment of
native sagebrush communities. To determine how this remedial strategy impacts the carbon budget, we are currently
quantifying the carbon content of biomass and soils associated with each stage of this remedial treatment. The
preliminary results of our work indicate that the reclamation strategy of replacing cheatgrass with bunchgrass has
significant carbon storage benefits (~20 t C ha-1). Furthermore, our data indicates that significant additional carbon
storage benefit will be achieved by the transition from bunchgrass to native sagebrush (~30 t C ha -1). Propagation of
these preliminary values toward reclamation of all cheatgrass-degraded sagebrush-steppe ecosystems in the U.S.,
(~39,000 mi2), implies that sagebrush restoration may have the potential to offset annual carbon emissions for
approximately ~100 million people.
Author(s): Jill Glenn, Daniele Tonina, Fritz Fiddler, and Mark Morehead
Title: Effects of cross-section location and interpolation methods on the accuracy of 3D
bathymetric surfaces
Abstract:
Accurate representation of river channel geometry is important for any modeling research that utilizes threedimensional (3d) channel geometry (bathymetry). Whether the scope is to estimate the extent of flood inundation,
the effects of dam operations on aquatic habitat, or populating one, two, or three-dimensional parameters for
hydraulic models, the accuracy of the bathymetry determines model outcome. The increased availability of
geographic information systems (GIS) has improved the efficiency in mapping and spatial analysis there by making
the mapping of bathymetry and results of research a standard practice. The generation of surfaces for river
bathymetry is relatively new and given the anisotropic trend in these data the method of interpolation between data
points plays an important role in the accuracy of the surface. This study investigates the number of cross-sections
required to accurately represent geomorphologic features and compares different interpolation methods used in the
generation of a bathymetric surface. This is accomplished by using a high resolution 1-meter grid digital elevation
model (DEM) to generate a series of different discretizations of cross-sections using geomorphologic feature
characteristics as placement criteria and producing DEMs for each discretization and using three interpolation
methods: Universal Kriging, TIN, and Simple Interpolation. Each DEM is then compared to the 1-meter DEM in
order to define the spatial distribution of vertical and volumetric error.
Author(s): Hank Hetrick, John Bradford, and Hans-Peter Marshall
Title: Determining the significance of lateral flow of water in the snowpack with a resistivity
grid
Abstract:
Knowledge relating to the process of lateral distribution of water in the snowpack can improve the development of
predictive models for soil moisture, groundwater recharge, and streamflow generation. Although most modeling
approaches assume water travels vertically through the snowpack, errors may be present due to neglecting a
significant amount of lateral flow. The goal of this project is to understand the occurrence and hydrologic relevance
of lateral flow in snow. One of the primary methods that will be used is the use of a resistivity grid. Several stainless
steel plates have been buried in the ground, which span a large area of a hillside located in the Dry Creek Watershed
northeast of Boise, Idaho. An electric potential will be generated across each plate, which will induce currents
through the ground. The current measurements will directly be converted into resistivity measurements. Since the
presence of water can significantly vary the resistivity of soil, the resistivity measurements can be converted to
approximate a soil moisture profile along the hillside. If the overlying snowpack diverts the vertical flow path of the
water to a lateral flow path, then the expected result is that more water will infiltrate into the soil at lower potions of
the hillside, which will be observed in the soil moisture profiles along the hillside. With the use of empirical
equations and estimations of variables in the soil, more quantitative estimations of lateral flow can possibly be
evaluated to further determine the significance of this process.
Author(s): Kyle Makovsky
Title: Miocene-recent tectono-magmatic framework for the basin and range of southeast Oregon
Abstract:
The role of faults and stratigraphy in geothermal systems of the northwest basin and range is important yet poorly
constrained. Faulting in this province provides an excellent opportunity to study young extensional terrane. The
field area for this project is near Paisley, OR which resides in the northwestern most section of the basin and range
province. Geologic mapping has revealed that the rocks in this area are early Cenozoic ash-flow tuffs and rhyolite
lava flows. These rocks are also host to geothermal fluids. Geothermometry using the Giggenbach method has
estimated that these fluids have a theoretical maximum temperature of 330° F. The maximum recorded temperature
of these fluids is 206.6° F, still allowing for the possibility of electrical power production. Stable isotope analysis of
this water reveals it came from a meteoric source, given by mean δ 18O values of -14.31‰ and mean δD values of 120.07‰. The stratigraphic and structural framework must be identified to properly assess geothermal potential
within these rocks. To do this, a gravity survey was conducted to help determine the orientation of the major fault
system. The data reduction process has started and promises to shed light into the structural framework of the
Paisley area.
Author(s): Thomas Othiem
Title: CO2 sequestration in basalts: laboratory measurements
Abstract:
Geologic sequestration of CO2 is proposed as being the only promising large-scale method to help reduce CO2 gas
emission by its capture at large point sources and subsequent long-term storage in deep geologic formations.
Reliable and cost-effective monitoring will be an important aspect of ensuring geological sequestration is a safe,
effective, and an acceptable method for CO2 emission mitigation. Once CO2 injection begins, seismic methods can
be used to monitor the migration of the carbon dioxide plume. To calibrate changes in rock properties from field
observations, we propose to first analyze changes in elastic properties on basalt cores.
Carbon dioxide sequestration in basalt rocks results in fluid substitution, mixing of CO2 with water, and
rock mineralization. Carbon dioxide sequestration in mafic rock creates reactions such as Mg 2SiO4 + CaMgSi2O6 +
4CO2 = Mg3Ca(CO3)4 + 3SiO2 whereby primary silicate minerals within the basalt react with carbonic acid laden
water to creating secondary carbonate minerals and silicates.
Using time-lapse laboratory scale experiments, such as laser generated ultrasonic wave propagation; it is
possible to observe small changes in the physical properties of a rock. We will show velocity and modulus
measurements on three basalt core samples for different saturations. The ultimate goal of the project is to track
seismic changes in rock properties due to fluid substitution and mineralization. The porosity of our basalts ranges
from 8% to 14%, and the P-wave velocity increases by 20% to 40% from dry to water saturated conditions.
Petrographic analysis (CT-scans, thin sections, XRF, XRf) will aid in the characterization of the mineral structure in
these basalts and its correlation to seismic properties changes resulting from fluid substitution and mineralization.
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Alistair Poore of the School of Biological,
Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of New South Wales,
Sydney, Australia
TITLE: From tiny grazers to global patterns in marine herbivory
Herbivory is one of the fundamental processes that regulate the biomass and composition of
primary producers, and thus ecosystem functioning. Herbivory is particularly intense in marine
systems, strongly determining the abundance of macroalgae and seagrasses and leading to the
evolution of a wide range of chemical defenses. I will give an overview of my research into the
ecology and evolution of the small marine herbivores whose interactions with algae are likened
to insect-plant interactions, and outline current efforts to understand global patterns in the impact
of marine grazers.
Molecular Biology
Author(s): Cheri L. Lamb & Kristen A. Mitchell
Title: Ah receptor interacts with activated Stat1 to promote cell proliferation
Abstract:
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a soluble, ligand-activated transcription factor that mediates the toxic effects
of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) and related chemicals. AhR activity has been shown to regulate cell
cycle progression both in vitro and in vivo, although the mechanisms are unclear. Additionally, recent evidence
shows that AhR interacts with Stat1 to regulate cell differentiation and inflammatory responses. Stats are
cytoplasmic signaling proteins that function as transcription factors to regulate many aspects of cell growth, survival
and differentiation. Stat1 activation frequently leads to pro-apoptotic effects thus suppressing proliferation. The
goal of this study was to determine if alterations in STAT1 signaling contribute to the suppression of proliferation
observed in TCDD-treated cells. 5L rat hepatoma and LX2 human stallate cells were serum starved and released +/TCDD (6nM) or vehicle. Cell lysates, 24 hr after treatment, were analyzed by co-immunoprecipitation and western
blotting. Levels of STAT1 increased in vehicle-treated cells compared to TCDD treated cells. Furthermore,
phosphorylated STAT1 (pSTAT1) coimmunoprecipitated with AhR in vehicle-treated cells. In contrast,
phosphorylated STAT1 was not detected in the AhR complex in TCDD-treated cells. Based on these results, it is
conceivable that the AhR-pSTAT1 interaction inhibits STAT1 signaling, and that TCDD treatment abolishes this
interaction, thereby enabling STAT1 signaling leading to pathways suppressing cell proliferation.
Author(s): Jonathon Reeck
Title: Investigating the role of minor fibrillar collagens in vertebrate development using a
zebrafish model
Abstract:
Zebrafish have proven to be a valuable model for the study of vertebrate development. Zebrafish models are being
used in virtually every area of molecular and cell biology and have become especially popular in developmental
biology. Zebrafish provide the benefits of being a low cost, rapidly developing, and easily manipulated transparent
vertebrate. These characteristics combined with increasing technology and improved techniques are providing
answers to a broad range of biological questions. We have developed a model for studying the role of the minor
fibrillar collagens of the extracellular matrix during development of organs and organ systems, specifically the heart,
eye, ear and skeletal system. Microinjection of antisense morpholinos to knockdown collagen expression in the
zebrafish model creates phenotypes found in human diseases caused by collagen deficiencies such as Stickler’s
syndrome type II. Knockdown of Collagen type V alpha 1 produces heart defects during development. Additionally,
knockdown of Collagen type XI alpha 1 produces craniofacial, ear and eye defects during development. The
zebrafish model system has proved to be a valuable tool in investigating the role of minor fibrillar collagens in
regulating vertebrate development.
Author(s): Ken Tawara & Cheryl L. Jorcyk
Title: Breast cancer cell mediated osteoclast differentiation is upregulated by oncostatin M
through HIF1α, VEGF and IL-6
Abstract:
Approximately 70-80% of breast cancer patients with metastatic disease have osteolytic bone metastases that cause
debilitating pain, morbidity and mortality. Oncostatin M (OSM) is a pleiotropic cytokine in the interleukin-6 (IL-6)
superfamily and functions in the immune system cascade, inflammation, bone homeostasis, and liver regeneration.
Evidence from the literature and our preliminary data suggest that OSM may promote breast cancer cell metastasis
to bone. Our data indicates that OSM induces expression of several proteins known to participate in bone metastasis
including cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), IL-6, and hypoxia inducible factor
1 alpha (HIF1α) in human breast cancer cell lines. In order to investigate the effect of OSM on an in vitro model of
breast cancer-mediated osteoclast differentation, we co-cultured RAW264.7 murine monocytic osteoclast progenitor
cells with a murine mammary cancer cell line 4T1.2. In the presence of OSM, the 4T1.2 cells stimulate over 800%
increase in osteoclastogenesis. Using siRNA against HIF1a and COX-2 significantly inhibited OSM and 4T1.2 cellmediated osteoclastogenesis. Neutralizing antibodies against VEGF and IL-6 also significantly inhibited
osteoclastogenesis. To date there are no therapies that inhibit OSM as a therapy to reduce osteolytic burden and our
findings suggest that inhibiting OSM may have a positive effect on osteolytic breast cancer metastases.
Author(s): Lacie Schulte, James F. Smith, Maggie Ooi, Shandra Jeffries, John L. Clark, and
Marisol Amaya M.
Title: Phylogenetic relationships within a clade of Columnea (Gesneriacae)
Abstract:
Until recently the phylogenetic resolution of the family Gesneriaceae has proven difficult based on morphological
characteristics alone. However, molecular data have begun to shed light on the evolutionary relationships of the
family, specifically focusing on the genus Columnea, the largest Neotropical genus within Gesneriaceae subfamily
Gesnerioideae. Previous phylogenetic analyses of Columnea based solely on morphology have arranged the species
into various genera and sections. The latest morphological data have placed all the species of Columnea into a single
genus (Columnea) divided into five sections. New analyses using molecular data are beginning to break down the
five sections of Columnea and for the first time show support for seven clades within the genus. One of the wellsupported monophyletic groups, herein called the angustata clade, needs to be investigated further. Species found
within the angustata clade are terrestrial herbs to thin stemmed epiphytes which have ventricose corollas less than
5cm in length and pale or opaque berry fruits present. This study uses six gene regions to determine which species
belong within the angustata clade and to place those species in a well supported phylogenetic tree. Preliminary
results show some of the subclades to be monophyletic and indicate that resolution among all species is likely to be
possible.
Author(s): Yan Wang, Eric Tretter, and Merlin White
Title: Multigene testing of the phyogenetic stability of Smittium
Abstract:
Gut fungi are a group of fungi living in the guts of insects. Harpellales is the order, which includes 39 genera,
mostly associated with aquatic insects as endosymbiotic microfungi obligately. As the largest genus of Harpellales,
Smittium has 79 named species, 40% of which have been cultured, thus much of our knowledge of the gut fungi,
relating to host specificity, growth parameters, thallial development, industrial utilization and co-evolution are from
studies with Smittium cultures. However, based on previous researches on DNA sequences (18S and 28S rRNA
genes seperately) Smittium is polyphyletic, with several possible lineages and perhaps even requiring a new genus
designation for the phylogenetically distinct Smittium culisetae, pending further data collection. Placing this and
other Smittium species is a current goal of our research program and we are building datasets for multi-gene (5
genes) phylogenies. Other Smittium species typically form a clade that also includes Furculomyces and
Austrosmittium. We will present a snapshot of our ongoing efforts to infer a multi-gene phylogeny with at least 44
targeted species of Smittium and their putatively closely related harpellid taxa, with sequence data from the rRNA
operon and RPB1 and RPB2 genes.
Hydrology & Aquatic Ecology
Author(s): Alexander N. Urquhart & Peter Koetsier
Title: Species profiling of Misgurnus anguillicaudatus: ecological characteristics of a little
known but proliferating invader
Abstract:
Successful invasive species share several characteristics which aid their establishment and propagation within
introduced habitats. Among these are high fecundity, dietary diversity, and wide tolerance of environmental
conditions. Native to Eastern Asia, the Oriental weatherfish (Misgurnus anguillicaudatus) is a cryptic, yet
internationally invasive species which may pose a threat to native fish populations within its introduced range.
Described as a tropical aquarium pet species, M. anguillicaudatus has successfully become established in 7 countries
across 3 continents, including 10 of the United States. Under commonly cited species account descriptions, the
environmental conditions experienced by the fish within its invaded range should serve to decrease its invasive
success. However, in the face of apparently expanding population sizes and newly documented occurrences we
undertook this study to determine the life history traits which facilitate the fish’s survival in these seemingly
inhospitable environments. We collected weatherfish from an invasive population in and around the Boise River
near Boise, Idaho, throughout 2008-2009. In a series of experiments, weatherfish showed high tolerance and
survivorship under freezing temperatures and substrate desiccation similar to local seasonal habitat conditions.
Rapid growth, early maturation and high fecundity may also aid survival and expansion of new introductions.
Opportunistic omnivorous diet and preference for habitat highly modified through anthropogenic disturbance may
facilitate survival through unique habitat use and escape from potential native predators. Together, these traits
characterize a successful invasive fish capable of expanding its range far beyond the environmental limitations that
previously published accounts would suggest.
Author(s): Brian Anderson, James McNamara, Hans-Peter Marshall, and Alejandro Flores
Title: Spatial distribution and evolution of a seasonal snowpack in complex terrain: an
evaluation of the SNODAS modeling product
Abstract:
Water inputs from snow in mountainous areas are subject to considerable uncertainty due to spatial variability. In an
attempt to improve the understanding of the sources of snow spatial variability, a field campaign to measure the
spatial and temporal distribution of snow water equivalent (SWE) within the Dry Creek Experimental Watershed
(DCEW) was conducted during 2009 and 2010. These measurements are compared to a distributed SWE data
assimilation and modeling product from the National Weather Service called the Snow Data Assimilation System
(SNODAS) to estimate the sub-pixel variability and accuracy of the model estimates, as well as attempt to
understand model deviation from observed conditions. These data are evaluated using the variogram to assess the
evolution of spatial correlation lengths throughout the winter. Correlations between snow depth and landscape
characteristics are explored to determine the most influential physical processes influencing SWE distribution.
Specifically, this work indentifies the relative importance of differential accumulation, redistribution, and
differential melt at three spatial scales. Results indicate that at the watershed scale (27 km2), elevation is the
dominant control on snow distribution, while at the SNODAS pixel scale (1 km 2), and 1 meter spaced transect scale,
differential solar radiation is a stronger control on SWE distribution during melt. Comparison of observations with
SNODAS show the model under-predicts SWE throughout the winter at 2 out of three sites, and over-predicts
during melt at one site. SNODAS captures the watershed scale elevation trend, but under-predicts the magnitude of
SWE at assumed maximum accumulation.
Author(s): Emma R. Wilson, Lance Steele, Prasanna Kandel, Alison Chamberlin, Sarah Oman,
and Merlin White
Title: Exploring the implications of fungicides for non-target aquatic fungi
Abstract:
Fungicides are pesticides designed to control fungal diseases, but tend to be understudied and are typically not
included in routine water quality monitoring programs. Many broad spectrum fungicides, such as Chlorothalonil,
have been applied for over 50 years, but the use of newly developed classes of fungicides has been increasing. The
development and registration of new fungicides as well as an expansion of their use is driven by the presence of new
fungal diseases (e.g. Asian Soybean Rust), the persistence of older diseases (e.g. Late blight) and increased
fungicide resistance to many fungal pathogens. Currently, there are limited data on the effects of fungicides on
aquatic organisms particularly non-target fungal communities. To better understand potential effects, surface water
samples and arthropod hosts of symbiotic gut fungi were collected from several sites between April and December
2010 in southern Idaho. Two control sites (Boise, Idaho) with no pesticide inputs and two agriculturally impacted
sites (Parma, Idaho) with known fungicide use were selected for the study. No fungicides were detected in the
control sites while at the Parma sites, azoxystrobin and boscalid were detected in over 90 % of the surface water
samples. Gut fungi in larvae from control sites had higher density, diversity and spore production, while those
collected from the two impacted sites typically had lower diversity and fecundity (spore production). Our results
indicate that fungicides have the potential to affect non-target fungal communities in surface water systems and may
have implications on lotic foodwebs.
Author(s): Tybee Wall & Patrick Wilson
Title: A comparative analysis of the resilience of small community water systems using the
social-ecological systems model
Abstract:
Climate change is frequently in the news and this issue is no less salient for the future of water resources. However,
the issue of climate change is often viewed from a global perspective, but it may profoundly affect small-community
water resources systems as well. I will use the Social-ecological systems (SES) model, presented by Anderies and
his coAuthor(s), (2004) to determine the resilience to disturbances, such as climate change and financial collapse, of
two systems, Troy and Genesee, Idaho. These two cases are suitable for this analysis because of their size and
location. If the Troy system is less resilient because of its reliance on surface water, then I will find that it is subject
to the uncertainty of climate change. If the Genesee system is less resilient because of its reliance on groundwater,
then I will find that since it receives little recharge and thus is finite, it is subject to the demands of population
growth. In order to more clearly understand the specifics of each case-study and provide a context for the research, I
will conduct interviews with those knowledgeable about each community water system. Furthermore, this analysis
lends itself well to interdisciplinary research as it combines methodologies and concepts from different
disciplines. Even the Social-ecological systems model integrates both the natural science and social science aspects
of a water system. In my conclusion, I plan to determine if the SES model fits my cases well and if my hypothesis
holds true.
Author(s): Daniel Stanaway, Dr. Shawn Benner, Dr. Kevin Feris, Dr. Roy Haggerty, and
Dr. Alejandro Flores
Title: Markov chain Monte Carlo optimization of the Raz Rru Advection Dispersion Equation to
determine microbial ecosystem response to contamination
Abstract:
Heavy metal contamination in lotic ecosystems is a major health and environmental concern worldwide. The
Resazurin Resorufin (Raz Rru) Smart Tracer (Haggerty et al., 2008) provides a novel approach to test current
models of microbial ecosystem response to chronic stressors such as heavy metals. Microbial communities of the
Clark Fork River (CF), Montana, demonstrate high levels of species diversity along the contamination gradient,
whereas community function is inversely proportional to the level of contamination. The Raz Rru tool, a
metabolically reactive hydrologic tracer, is used to quantify metal induced limits on microbial respiration in
communities that have evolved to different levels of chronic metal exposure. We hypothesize that metal
contamination induces a metabolic cost to microbial communities and that this cost is detectable with the Raz Rru
Smart Tracer. To test this hypothesis, rates of microbial respiration associated with hyporheic sediments were
quantified in column experiments. Hyporheic sediment was collected from differently contaminated locations
within the CF and compared to reference sites. The resulting breakthrough curve is modeled with the Raz Rru
Advection Dispersion Equation (RRADE):
.
The Markov Chain Monte Carlo approach is used to optimize the RRADE and elucidate k 12, the parameter
describing microbial respiration. Results indicate inhibited rates of respiration in microbial communities evolved in
contaminated environments. This project has the potential to corroborate a revised theory of ecosystem response to
chronic stress, while contributing to the development and application of the Raz Rru Smart Tracer.
Poster Presentations
Ecology
Author(s): Rachel Campbell
Title: Relationship between holes of Taxidea taxus and percent cover of Leymus cinereus
Abstract:
Badgers (Taxidea taxus) are ecological engineers and benefit other species by construction of tunnels and mounds.
Walker and Brotherson (1982) observed a close association between badger digs and presence of Great Basin
wildrye (Leymus cinereus) in Utah. Great Basin wildrye was an important grass in presettlement times and covered
thousands of hectares. I wanted to determine if a similar relationship between these two ecologically important
species also existed in the Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area. I used 10 pairs of 10x10 m
quadrats and counted numbers of both species. I predicted that there would be more badger digs in quadrats with
Great Basin wildrye (GBW) and that there would be a positive correlation between number of badger digs and
percent cover of GBW. There was a trend toward more badger digs in quadrats with GBW ( Mann-Whitney Rank
Sum test, U=27.500, p=0.085). There was a strong positive correlation between numbers of badger digs and GBW
cover (Spearman rank correlation, rs = 0.592, p = 0.00597; linear regression r=0.728, p<0.001, SE = 1.144; y =
0.0569 + 0.367 * x). These results imply that there may also be an association between these two species in
southwestern Idaho. The consistency and reasons for the association need investigation.
Author(s): Patrick Kolar & Marc J. Bechard
Title: Impacts of wind turbines on fledgling Buteo hawks in the Columbia Plateau ecoregion
Abstract:
As wind energy development has expanded throughout the Columbia Plateau Ecoregion (CPE) and Columbia River
Gorge, few studies have examined the long-term impacts of wind projects on breeding raptors or their young.
Currently, most information on the relationship between raptors and wind turbines comes from pre-and postconstruction surveys and mortality monitoring on wind project areas. Our study will seek to determine how the
spatial distribution of wind turbines may affect occupancy and productivity of breeding hawks as well as movement
and mortality of juvenile hawks. Following raptor surveys in the first of our two year study located near Arlington,
OR we detected a total of 45 breeding Buteo hawk pairs from three species (6 ferruginous hawks, 14 red-tailed
hawks, and 25 Swainson’s hawks). Breeding stage was determined and nests located up to two miles from the
nearest wind turbines were monitored until juveniles fledged. Additionally, 30 nestling hawks were radio-marked (3
ferruginous, 10 red-tailed, and 12 Swainson’s hawk) and tracked until dispersal from the study area to record
location information, sources of mortality, and behavioral observations. Of the 30 radio-marked hawks, seven
mortalities were documented, none directly related to wind turbines. This study will provide information on
juvenile hawk mortality and other potential impacts from wind turbines that could be relevant to wind projects
nationwide. These data will be useful to developers in determining where to place turbine strings in order to
minimize potential impacts to breeding hawks.
Author(s): Allison C. Korte & Dr. Alfred M. Dufty, Jr.
Title: Urbanization and avian species richness along the Boise River corridor
Abstract:
Riparian corridors are biologically diverse ecosystems that provide valuable habitat used for breeding, migration,
and dispersal activities of birds. These ecosystems are popular areas for urban development and studies have shown
that avian richness decreases with increased urbanization. For example, in British Columbia, point count surveys
showed that species richness declined in relation to a gradient of increasing urbanization.
We are comparing areas along the Boise River, with different levels of urbanization, to test the hypothesis that
increasing urbanization is associated with decreased avian richness and abundance. Ten-minute point count surveys
were conducted at 100 sites along the river from early May to the end of June. The sites were split up between two
field seasons and each site was visited three times throughout the seasons. At each site, the riparian vegetation was
surveyed noting the type, height and percent composition. GIS was used to determine the percent coverage of
riparian area, grass, shrubs, buildings and other urbanization classes around the sites. This information will be used
to assess the effects of urbanization on the avian populations along the Boise River.
This study will improve our understanding of the effects of urban development on avian species along riparian
corridors and will aide in developing local conservation plans needed to preserve the riparian areas along the Boise
River. Currently, data for both field seasons have been collected and basic descriptive statistical analysis has been
used to narrow and combine variables. A more comprehensive analysis of the data is soon to follow.
Author(s): Robert Miller
Title: Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) breeding, productivity, and sex-ratios relative to
forest structure, prey abundance, and habitat change within the Sawtooth National Forest
Abstract:
The Minidoka Ranger District of the Sawtooth National Forest of Idaho, with its discreet forest segments and unique
flora and fauna, presents unique challenges to sensitive species such as Northern Goshawks. The naturally
fragmented forest structure found in the Minidoka Ranger District exhibits the constraints of island biogeography.
The top identified food source of Northern Goshawks worldwide, tree squirrels of genera Sciurus and Tamiasciurus,
are naturally absent from these forest islands. Additionally the Aspen forests upon which the Northern Goshawks
locally depend are under threat from historic fire suppression practices and global climate change. I propose a multiyear thesis project to explore the breeding health of the local Northern Goshawk population by studying territory
occupancy rates, breeding success, and fledgling sex-ratios relative to habitat quality, territorial prey abundance and
predicted forest structural changes. The results will provide forest managers with information on the state of the
Northern Goshawk population within the Minidoka Ranger District and the most significant factors affecting
successful breeding within the population.
Author(s): Eric G. Nolte, J. A. Heath, and G. S. Kaltenecker
Title: Detectability of migrating raptors: sources of variation and implications for population
monitoring
Abstract:
Annual counts of migrating raptors are used as indices of population size. To ascertain accurate trends from index
counts over time, the proportion of the population being counted must remain constant. As such, sources of variation
in the proportion counted should be identified and either corrected for or eliminated. Detectability, narrowly defined
as the probability of a visible bird being recorded, is one source of error. We used a dependent double-observer
method to quantify the detectability of raptors at the annual fall raptor migration count at Lucky Peak, west of Boise,
Idaho, over the course of two years (65 days, 390 hours, n=6873). We modeled detectability with a suite of Huggins
closed-capture removal models, then selected and averaged models according to AICc. Our best-fit models include
covariates for observers, day of the season, hour of the day, distance from the observer, species, flight density, and
weather. Individual detectability varied from 0.17 to 0.94 (mean= 0.66, sd=0.14). We estimate the total number of
raptors visible while the experiment was being conducted was 7900 (SE=103), 15% more than the number counted.
By controlling factors that affect detectability, or by adjusting counts to account for detectability, raptor observatory
organizations may be able to generate more confident trend assessments; thereby better informing timely
management decisions.
Author(s): Neil Paprocki
Title: Current versus historical trends in habitat use by wintering raptors in the Snake River
Birds of Prey National Conservation Area
Abstract:
Winter mortality and habitat quality can affect the reproductive success of raptors during the breeding season.
Crucial shrub-steppe wintering raptor habitat in the Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area (NCA) is
currently being lost due mainly to the invasion of exotic grasses such as cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum). The impact
of this loss of native habitat over time, along with changing global climate trends, is relatively unknown on raptors. I
will be conducting wintering raptor point count and road surveys in the NCA during the 2010/11 and 2011/12
seasons. These current occupancy rates will then be compared to historical data from the early 1990s in the NCA to
determine what factors (habitat, climate, etc.) are driving changes in wintering raptor occupancy and distribution.
Author(s): Julie A. Heath , Erin H. Strasser, Mark A. Foster, Lina Bardo, and David M. Bird
Title: Challenges in creating a size-adjusted body condition index for American kestrels
Abstract:
Birds store energy as fat or protein reserves. These non-structural energy reserves may be estimated by creating a
size-adjusted body condition index (BCI) based on the ratio between total mass and an accurate structural size
measure. Ideally, BCIs are validated by comparing index scores to true fat and protein reserves. Many studies of
American Kestrels (Falco sparverius) have included BCIs in ecological analyses; few studies have reported how
well size-correction factors estimated body size or provided validation of BCIs relative to independent measures of
energy reserves, making generalizations across studies difficult. We evaluated relationships among several
commonly used and non-traditional morphometrics and mass for two kestrel populations: captive birds at McGill
University in Montreal and free-living American Kestrels in southwestern Idaho. We also compared BCIs based on
different morphometrics with subjective fat scores. There were few strong (r > 0.5) relationships among
morphometrics and few strong positive relationships between univariate metrics and mass. Moreover, correlations
were gender and location dependent. Not all BCIs positively correlated with subjective fat scores and correlations
were dependent on gender, suggesting that BCIs perform differently between sexes. Although we evaluated many
common measurements, we were unable to identify morphometric(s) that accurately reflects kestrel size. We
suggest that future research explore alternative morphometrics to account for size, report the explanatory power of
size correction factors, and validate BCIs with direct fat and protein measures. Males and females have different
morphology and information from both genders should not be combined to create one BCI for kestrels.
Author(s): Yozora Tadehara, Dr. Marc Bechard, and Dr. Andrew Dixon
Title: The Saker falcon (Falco cherrug) in central Mongolia: link between home range use and
different phases of the breeding cycle & breeding success between artificial and natural nesting
areas
Abstract:
The Saker Falcon is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, and listed on Appendix II of CITES
(Gombobaatar 2006). While many factors conflict with the success of this species in the Mongolian steppe, a major
conflict is the unsustainable capture for the falconry trade (Nagy and Demeter 2006; Levin 2000; Potapov et al.
2001). Another limiting factor is natural nest sites. After the natural nest sites are occupied with breeding Saker
Falcons there are many non-breeding Saker Falcons drifting throughout the steppe of Mongolia (Potapov et al.
2002). More falcons need to be produced to offset the ‘take’ of Saker Falcons (Nagy and Demeter 2006). In
attempt to offset the ‘take’ of these falcons the experimental plot of artificial nests was erected. Attaching artificial
nesting platforms to the flat steppe habitats of Mongolia allows the Saker Falcon to breed in areas only non-breeding
Saker Falcons would otherwise be found. The purpose of my research is to establish a baseline description of Saker
Falcon home ranges in relation to stage of breeding cycle within the ‘artificial nest experimental area’ and compare
breeding success between artificial and natural breeding areas. It is expected that home ranges increase as the young
grow older and that males’ home ranges are larger than females’. It is also predicted that productivity will be lower
in natural nesting areas because there are fewer nesting sites available. Information gained from this study is
intended to assist in the conservation of the endangered Saker Falcon.
Author(s): Teresa Tarifa, Stephen J. Novak, and Rene Sforza
Title: Understanding an invasion through historical information: Taeniatherum caput-medusae
(Medusahead) in the United States
Abstract:
Biological invasions constitute the second most-important threat to global biodiversity, after only habitat destruction
and fragmentation. Invasions have many negative ecological consequences including alteration (or loss) of native
biodiversity and ecosystem processes. Although plant invasions are closely tied to human activities;
comprehensively describing them is often difficult. Determining dates and locations of introduction, pattern of
range expansion, and the persistence of alien populations allow us to understand the invasion process: does invasion
occur as a consequence of pre-adaptation or adaptive evolution, and can we predict the future of an invasion?
Taeniatherum caput-medusae (medusahead) is a Eurasian annual grass that has invaded and degraded rangelands in
California, Idaho, Oregon, Nevada, Utah and Washington, but its history of introduction and range expansion have
not been conclusively documented. We are using herbaria specimens, historical records, and information from
agricultural experimental stations to reconstruct the invasion of T. caput-medusae in the United States (U.S.).
Within the U.S., it was first collected in the Umpqua Valley of Oregon (1884), and shortly thereafter in eastern
Washington and northern California. In Idaho, the plant was first observed in 1930 and by 1992 was estimated to
infest 560,000 hectares. Medusahead has also been reported from other western states and in the eastern U.S.
(Connecticut, New York and Pennsylvania), but these records need to be confirmed. The geographic distances
between the earliest collection sites suggest that T. caput-medusae may have been introduced multiple times.
Multiple introductions have previously been shown to greatly increase the pace by which invasions proceed.
Author(s): Jamie Utz, Jennifer Forbey, Janet Rachlow, and Lisa Shipley
Title: Understanding the trade-off between safety and food quality in pygmy rabbits
(Brachylagus idahoensis)
Abstract:
Conserving a sensitive animal species requires an understanding of the simultaneous trade-offs between food and
shelter within a landscape. Current conservation approaches typically only consider landscape factors at large spatial
scales. However, food quality and cover at a scale relevant to a foraging animal may influence the functionality of
habitats. To understand connections between food, cover, and habitat use, we studied trade-offs between perceived
risk and diet quality in the imperiled pygmy rabbit (Brachylagus idahoensis). We hypothesized that pygmy rabbits
would forage in areas with the lowest predation risk and highest quality food, but would trade-off lower predation
risk for higher quality food. We tested this by comparing the intake of captive pygmy rabbits through three separate
studies: 1) dark (low predation risk) versus clear (high predation risk) cover; 2) non-toxic food (high quality) versus
food with 5% toxin (low quality); and 3) toxic food under dark cover versus non-toxic food without cover. Rabbits
preferred to eat under dark cover and eat non-toxic food during the single choice experiments. However, rabbits ate
significantly less under dark cover with toxic food compared to dark cover with non-toxic food and did not
compensate for lower intake by eating more uncovered non-toxic food. Results suggest that cover value can
decrease if food quality is low and that the value of quality food can be reduced if cover is inadequate. These results
may lead to tailored pygmy rabbit conservation efforts by considering how factors such as diet quality and predation
risk affect habitat use.
Author(s): Heidi Ware, Dr. Jay Carlisle, and Dr. Alfred Dufty
Title: Population dynamics of ten avian species breeding at Lucky Peak, Boise foothills, Idaho
Abstract:
Long term projects like the Idaho Bird Observatory’s Lucky Peak banding station provide valuable information on
bird conservation and life history traits. We explored banding data from 1997-2009 to examine yearly patterns of
abundance and survivorship for the 10 most common breeding species. We found that survivorship patterns vary by
species. We documented Nashville and Yellow warblers living up to 4 years, while some Dusky Flycatchers,
MacGillivray’s Warblers and Chipping Sparrows lived 7 years or more. In fact several Western Tanagers and Dusky
Flycatchers exceed or match longevity records in the USGS Bird Banding Lab database. The ratio of hatch year
birds to adults lends insight into survivorship, productivity and recruitment in the community. Species may have low
numbers of hatch years one year yet high numbers of second year birds the next year. This was particularly seen in
Warbling Vireos and suggests that immigration is important for this species. In contrast, the number of hatch year
Spotted Towhees in one year correlated with the number of second years in the next year, implying that many
towhees hatched at the site return to breed. Analysis also showed trends in population dynamics and striking annual
difference in species’ abundance. Neotropical migrants like MacGillivray's and Yellow warblers peaked in both
2000/01 and 2006/07 but Nashville Warblers (another Neotropical species) peaked in 2005. Interestingly, short
distant migrants such as Chipping Sparrow and Spotted Towhee also peaked in 2005. Further investigation is
required to determine which factors—possibly including weather, diet, timing of breeding and migration strategy—
contribute to these fluctuations.
Geosciences
Author(s): Thomas Blum, Mark Schmitz, and Kasper van Wijk
Title: U-Pb zircon ages for the upper Arkansas Basin sediment fill and implications for late
Miocene faunas
Abstract:
The Upper Arkansas basin is the northernmost extent of the Rio Grande Rift, a large-scale geological feature located
in southern Colorado and New Mexico. The basin is a west dipping half-graben filled with flood-plain sediments,
mud flows, alluvial fans and volcanic ash deposits. Mammal fossils are preserved within all four Miocene basins in
the rift system. The Santa Fe group in the Espanola basin was the first to be explored paleontologically and provides
the most extensive fossil collection in New-Mexico. Several mammalian fossils are found in the southern part of the
Upper Arkansas basin; their age is currently inferred from similarities with other fossil collections. We apply U-Pb
zircon dating to volcanic ash beds bracketing these fossil occurrences in order to constrain their age. We compare
our results with the Appearance Event Ordination algorithm developed to estimate the age of isolated fossil
collections, and show that the two ages are in good agreement.
Author(s): Emily Hinz & John Bradford
Title: Detection of NAPL contaminants using electroseismics
Abstract:
Electroseismics (ES) uses an acoustic receiver and electrical source to record converted electromagnetic to
mechanical energy from material and electrical interfaces. This technique allows us to seismically image material
and electrical interfaces, and we can resolve the shape and depth to these interfaces using traditional seismic
processing techniques. Through a series of electroseismic L- (light) and D- (dense) NAPL (non-aqueous phase
liquid) laboratory injection experiments we find that we can detect the presence of thin layers of resistive fluid
below the 1/2 wavelength ES vertical resolution limit by mapping changes in amplitude with increasing volumes of
NAPL. We compare the ES response to LNAPL with cross-hole electrical resistivity tomography and conclude that
the ES amplitude changes are mapping LNAPL layers below the resolution of the resistivity method. Thin NAPL
layers create a thin-bed tuning effect as ES wavelets are created from the top and bottom of the fluid plume. Since
the NAPLs rest against an existing layer interface, this alters the interface's amplitude through constructive or
destructive interference. We detect measurable amplitude changes at the affected interface for even our thinnest
NAPL layer: approximately 0.05 cm. Amplitude increases with the thinnest layers from the background data is
attributed to constructive interference and possibly a partial NAPL saturation in the pore space. These changes at the
laboratory scale suggest that measuring ES conversions may be practical at the field scale for near-surface
contaminant monitoring.
Author(s): Dylan Mikesell & Kasper van Wijk
Title: Near-surface characterization using seismic headwaves and seismic interferometry
Abstract:
In exploration seismology, we use seismic wave reflections and refractions in the Earth to create images of the
subsurface stratigraphy. In the near-surface, seismic techniques are used to delineate the extent of aquifers or karst
as well as estimate the local depth to a water-table. In recent years, seismologists have developed the theory of
Crosscorrelation Seismic Interferometry (SI), whereby they turn seismic recorders into seismic sources. In some
cases, this method allows us to improve the quality of seismic images by removing the blurring effects of the nearsurface. In other cases, this method allows us to generate images by recording and crosscorrelating the Earth's
natural vibrations over long periods of time. In our field application, we use a small sledge hammer as a seismic
source and crosscorrelate the recorded seismic waves in order to generate new data as if one of the seismic receivers
was a source. In this example, the geometric acquisition requirements necessary for accurate SI results are not met,
leading to a non-physical artifact we call the virtual refraction. We present a novel method to extract near-surface
information from the virtual refraction and apply coherency analysis to the crosscorrelated wavefields to estimate
seismic properties and stratigraphy at the Boise Hydrogeophysical Research Site.
Author(s): Vincent J. Schlageter
Title: A major Miocene-pliocene tectonic event, western Snake River Plain: A
tectonostratigraphic evaluation
Abstract:
The Western Snake River Plains' (WSRP) lithostratigraphic framework has been affected by tectonic stressors; this
framework is loosely constrained and poorly understood resulting in various ideas about the Miocene-Pliocene
origin and evolution of this tectonic basin. The WSRP is a fault-bound basin that contains lacustrine and intercalated
volcanic units of Neogene to Quaternary of age. This projects main focus will be on the unconformity between the
Miocene Chalk Hills and the possibly Pliocene Glenns Ferry Formation to: establish the precise age of the
unconformity through the use of high-precision ID-TIMS U-Pb zircon ages and assess the structural geometries
below the contact. Several areas within the southern margin of the WSRP will be examined stretching from Oreana
in the west to just outside of Breauno Idaho in the east. This will provide critical data for assessing the age and
nature (i.e., tilting, faulting, with the possibility of folding of stratigraphic units) of this little recognized, but
regionally important tectonic event and to place it within the overall tectonic framework for the western U.S.This
and other data will be complied and made available for public examination and interpretation through the GeoStrat
digital information system (www.geostrat.org).
Author(s): Alden Shallcross, Jim McNamara, H.P. Marshall, Alejandro N. Flores, Nancy
Glenn, and Danny Marks
Title: Estimating the spatial distribution of snow using aerial LiDAR and binary regression trees
Abstract:
Snow cover derived from airborne LiDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) is combined with binary regression trees
to improve the prediction of total basin snow volume for the Dry Creek Experimental Watershed (DCEW), ID.
These methods are used to identify site-specific topographic controls on the spatial distribution of snow so that
future point measurements of snow depth can be distributed through space efficiently. LiDAR is used to map snow
cover by differencing the digital elevation models (DEMs) obtained from a snow-covered overflight and a snow-free
overflight. Topographic parameters known to control snow distribution are calculated from the snow free LiDAR
dataset. Here, mean vegetation height, slope, aspect, solar radiation, and elevation are used to predict snow depth
via a binary regression tree using ten-fold cross-validation. The branches leading to the terminal nodes of the
regression tree are used to segment the watershed into homogeneous snow distribution units. Preliminary results
indicate that 23 statistically significant discrete units exist. Thus, during future field campaigns, point measurements
of snow depth can be gathered and distributed throughout these units. Mean measured SWE/depth of each unit can
be summed to determine the total basin snow volume. This method should decrease field time and improve the
accuracy of basin snow volume estimates for watershed analyses.
Author(s): Kerrie N. Weppner, Jennifer L. Pierce, and Julio L. Betancourt
Title: Holocene climates, wildfire and vegetation in a forest-steppe ecotone at the City of Rocks
National Reserve, Idaho.
Abstract:
Ecosystem response to climate change includes altered fire regimes and vegetation redistributions; however, the
relationship among climate, fire and vegetation are not well understood. This study uses radiocarbon dating of
charcoal preserved in stream banks and alluvial fans to develop a long-term (103-104 yr) chronology of fire in a
semi-arid, forest-steppe ecotone in City of Rocks National Reserve (CIRO) located in southern Idaho. Fire and firerelated sedimentation events are compared to 1) independent paleoclimate proxy records from the Bonneville Basin
and northeastern Great Basin, and to 2) a vegetation reconstruction from nearby woodrat middens, to identify
Holocene climate and vegetation controls on fire.
Alluvial charcoal records indicate four episodes of enhanced fire activity during the Holocene. Early Holocene fires
(~11,500-9,900 cal yr BP) burned following the Younger-Dryas cool interval, as climate shifted to warmer, drier
conditions. Correlation of mid-Holocene fires (~7,200-6,500 cal yr BP) and late Holocene fires (~2,800-1,600,
~800-400 cal yr BP) to climate proxy data (e.g. Lake Bonneville shoreline levels) suggests that fires burned during
cooler, wetter intervals. Comparison of recent fire activity to the Palmer Drought Severity Index indicate that recent
fires (~800-400 cal yr BP) occurred when this extended moist period was punctuated briefly by drought.
Modern woodlands at CIRO are dominated by single-needle pinyon (P. monophylla). Midden records estimate that
pinyon arrived to CIRO ~2,800 cal yr BP, expanded slowly and did not establish dominance until ~700 cal yr BP.
Increased fires correspond to pinyon arrival and fire activity became further enhanced during pinyon expansion.
Molecular Biology
Author(s): Keith Carter, Merlin White, and Marcelo Serpe
Title: Identification of Mycorrhizal species associated with Artemisia tridentata spp.
wyomingensis in southwestern Idaho
Abstract:
Reintroduction of Artemisia tridentata ssp. wyomingensis (Wyoming big sagebrush) in burned areas has proven
difficult due to high seedling mortality. A factor that could improve seedling survival is the establishment of
symbiotic associations with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). As a first step to investigate this notion, we have
begun to identify and multiply native AMF species that colonize Wyoming big sagebrush. Identification of species
is based on molecular methods, which involve DNA extraction from soil samples and sagebrush roots, and the use
of nested PCR with primers specific for AMF. Current sequence data from field sites show that Glomus intraradices
and G. microaggregatum colonize the roots of sagebrush seedlings. Data gathered from soil samples and from
greenhouse pot cultures show additional species, including G. claroideum. Extraction and amplification of
mycorrhizal DNA from both soil and sagebrush roots has been completed successfully from seven sites in southwest
Idaho. DNA cloning, sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis is currently underway.
Author(s): Michael C. Davis, Josu Zubizarreta, Stephen J. Novak, and Greg Hampikian
Title: Mitochondrial and Y-chromosome DNA diversity in an immigrant Basque population:
summary of recent findings
Abstract:
The Basque are an ancient people; their distinct cultural identity and unique language have made them of interest to
anthropologists, linguists, and geneticists. We sampled 53 unrelated individuals with Basque ancestry in Boise,
Idaho (NW Basques), and determined the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequence variation of the first and second
hypervariable regions. Thirty-six mtDNA haplotypes were detected in our sample. Signatures of founder effects
were observed, consistent with the history of migration, such as a significant change in the haplogroup frequency
distribution. We also report individuals (7.5% of our sample) with the Cambridge Reference Sequence (rCRS)
haplotype for hypervariable regions I and II. This haplotype is absent in a previous study of Spanish Basque
control-region mtDNA, and is rare throughout Europe; however it is found at similar frequency in certain French
populations. We also performed Y-chromosome short tandem repeat (Y-STR) typing for 50 individuals with
paternal Basque heritage. One of eight shared haplotypes in the NW Basque sample is also the most common
haplotype in Europe. Frequencies of specific alleles are very similar in both immigrant and native (European)
Basques, and genetic distance analysis based on Rst values reveals the close relationship between both Basque
populations. We discuss our findings in terms of very recent immigration events as well as continued gene flow
between native and immigrant populations.
Author(s): Brian Deis & Kevin Feris
Title: Optimization of a novel two-stage Lignocellose Saccharification reactor design
Abstract:
Lignocellulosic ethanol is required to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, but current biochemical biofuel
platforms are not viable due to hydrolytic enzyme costs. To address this challenge we have optimized parameters
for a novel two-stage semi-continuous bio-reactor, consisting of a nursery reactor and a hydrolysis reactor. This
design spatially separates enzyme production and hydrolysis activities, allowing for simultaneous optimized
operation for extend time periods. 250ml bioreactors containing cellulose were inoculated with encapsulated or
unencapsulated Trichoderma reesei RUT-C30 and monitored for enzyme production. Enzymes from the nursery
reactor were used to optimize hydrolysis reactors containing cellulose or pretreated sawdust. The alginate
encapsulation matrix composition, reactor dimensions, and agitation rates were varied to optimize hydrolytic
enzyme production. Hydrolysis reactor products (e.g. soluble sugars) were tested as enzyme inducers for continual
operation of the nursery. After a six-day run the encapsulation matrix retained 90% of the T. reesei biomass.
Enzyme activity of the optimized encapsulation treatment was only13% less than the unencapsulated treatment.
Though enzyme activity of the encapsulated nursery reactor was lower than the unencapsulated treatment,
subsequent hydrolysis activity of the encapsulated enzyme solution was 14% - 40% higher than its unencapsulated
counterpart. Feeding hydrolysis reactor products to the nursery yielded high levels of enzyme activity. We have
optimized conditions for a bench scale 2-stage lignocellulose hydrolysis reactor. These data are being used to
parameterize a 70L pilot-scale reactor. Utilizing on-site hydrolytic enzyme production and lignocellulose hydrolysis
products to maintain enzyme production in the nursery reactor should lower biofuel production costs.
Author(s): Michelle Laskowski & Dr. Alfred Dufty
Title: Using molecular techniques to assess blood parasite loads in raptors
Abstract:
In northern temperate regions the annual cycle of many birds is characterized by spring and fall migration. Previous
studies have shown that migrating birds have a higher prevalence of blood parasites than non-migrating birds. I will
explore the hypothesis that the energetic demands experienced during migration weaken the immune system and
allow parasites to persist. Blood parasites are routinely found in healthy raptors and often have little to no effect on
overall fitness. However, during high energy-demanding periods, such as migration, parasitism can have serious
consequences, possibly because the immune system is actively suppressed or because limited energy reserves are
selectively shunted away from the immune system in favor of other activities.
Previously I explored the idea that flapping flight, which is energetically demanding, results in a higher parasite load
than soaring or mixed flight strategies. Parasite prevalence of infected raptors in a population during migration
appeared to be higher for the flapping flight strategy (77%) and lowest for the flapper-soarers (52%), with soarers
having a prevalence of 60%.
During fall migration, raptors will be trapped at the Idaho Bird Observatory near Boise, Idaho. Blood samples will
be collected from the jugular or wing veins.
Avian malaria parasite lineages (Plasmodium and Haemoproteus spp.) and Leucocytozoon, are known to be present
in Accipitridea and Falconidae. I will examine parasite intensities using qPCR. This will allow me quantitatively
determine prevalence and intensity of blood parasites in raptors and the extent to which energetic demands for
migration are related to blood parasite prevalence.
Author(s): Madhuri Nandakumar, Ryan Fox, and Cheryl Jorcyk
Title: Molecular mechanisms of IL-6 family cytokine-induced VEGF in breast cancer
Abstract:
Oncostatin M (OSM) is an interleukin-6 (IL-6) family cytokine that has been shown to induce expression of vascular
endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in astroglioma and in hepatocellular and breast carcinoma. It is also known to
induce VEGF in non-cancerous cells such as cardiac myocytes, hepatocytes, and smooth muscle cells. Under
hypoxic conditions, VEGF expression is known to be dependent on the transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor
1 alpha (HIF1α). Our current studies were designed to determine whether VEGF expression induced by OSM and
other IL-6 family members, including IL-6 and leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), is likewise dependent on HIF1α in
human breast cancer cells. To analyze VEGF expression levels, MDA-MB-231 and T47D human breast cancer cells
were cultured in the presence or absence of OSM, IL-6, and LIF, with or without a HIF1α siRNA, for 12 to 72 hrs.
All three cytokines significantly induced HIF1α expression by Western blot analysis at each time point in both
MDA-MD-231 and T47D cells. Conditioned media from these experiments was also analyzed using ELISA to
determine HIF1α-induced VEGF expression. Treatment with OSM resulted in a two- to three-fold induction of
secreted VEGF, while treatment with IL-6 and LIF showed no significant induction .To summarize, it is important
to note that IL-6 and LIF did not induce VEGF expression in two commonly used human breast cancer cell lines,
MDA-MB-231 and T47D. Investigations are in progress to better understand mechanisms utilized by breast cancer
cells for OSM-induced VEGF expression.
Author(s): Eric Tretter, Merlin White, and Yan Wang
Title: Specialized primers for the amplification of unknown fungal sequences from mixed
genomics
Abstract:
The amplification of unculturable trichomycete (or gut fungi) taxa presents a special challenge; it is nearly
impossible to prepare a field dissected DNA voucher for gut fungi without including at least some tissue from the
host insect, and this mixed DNA template can often interfere with amplification and sequencing. Furthermore, since
the genetic diversity of the gut fungi has not yet been adequately explored, it is difficult to develop primers specific
to this group. For this presentation, I discuss an alternative approach – instead of developing primers specific to the
group of interest, primers are designed to be incompatible with autapomorphies present in the sequences of the
interfering group (in this case, the host arthropods.) These ‘animal-avoidant’ primers should be able to amplify
trichomycete DNA, even from taxa with unknown sequences, without amplifying the DNA of the host insect. I will
discuss the process of making a reference alignment, determining suitable regions in which to create primers, and
refining the PCR reaction in order to create specificity, with some examples of preliminary primers designed for my
taxa.
Author(s): Lavanya Vempati & Juliette Tinker
Title: Construction of Shiga toxin 1 non-toxic fusions as potential vaccine adjuvants
Abstract:
My Research is about developing adjuvants for vaccines and I am working with my Major Advisor Dr.Tinker on
Shiga Toxin1.Shiga toxin 1 (ST1) is a bacterial toxin, secreted by Shigella dysenteriae and Escherichia coli
0157:H7. ST1 and cholera toxin (CT) have structural similarity but different characteristics. CT has long been
recognized as a good immunomodulator with the ability to stimulate specific immune responses to co-administered
antigens when administered through the oral or nasal route. High specific receptor-binding affinity and stability
appear to be the basis for these unique immunomodulatory properties. However, toxicity of these molecules is a
limiting factor for use as an adjuvant in human vaccines. Chimeric A2B molecules, as well as other non toxic
derivatives, of CT have shown much promise as novel mucosal vaccine candidates.A2B chimeras of CT retain the
capacity to introduce antigens into host cells and modulate the immune response, and toxic domains are replaced
with a vaccine antigen of interest. My project is to construct ST1 A2B chimeras and additional non toxic ST1
derivatives containing West Nile virus and Yersinia pestis bacterial antigens.We will evaluate the ability of these
vaccine candidates to stimulate antigen uptake and trafficking by confocal microscopy. Non-toxic ST1 adjuvant
activity will be compared to that of non-toxic CT derivatives. Development of novel adjuvants will improve the
immunogenicity of purified vaccine antigens and is recognized as a top priority in vaccine research.
Hydrology & Aquatic Ecology
Author(s): Frank Gariglio, Daniele Tonina, and Charles Luce
Title: Quantifying hyporheic exchange over a long timescale using heat as a tracer in Bear
Valley Creek, Idaho, USA
Abstract:
Using heat as a tracer of hyporheic fluxes is potentially useful for identifying areas of hyporheic exchange and
quantifying the nature of that exchange. We examine temperature records from Bear Valley Creek, Idaho, USA for
a time period from October 16, 2006 to July 11, 2007 in order to estimate hyporheic fluxes. Temperatures were
monitored at nine probe locations. Each probe location contained four discrete temperature sensors positioned at
depths of approximately 0-cm, 10-cm, 20-cm, and 50-cm below the streambed. Patterns of hyporheic exchange are
observed to vary both temporally and spatially within the study site. In addition to expected areas of hyporheic
exchange due to streambed topography (pool-riffle-pool sequences), local valley gradients also appear to influence
the hyporheic exchange characteristics of the Bear Valley Creek system. Using temperature time series amplitude
and phase analyses, the magnitude and direction of hyporheic fluxes were estimated and compared to previously
reported values for similar systems. The analysis demonstrates the complex nature of hyporheic exchange over a
long time period in a high mountain stream. The hyporheic exchange characteristics of this and other similar
systems are expected to have implications for aquatic ecosystems. Since this particular stream supports Chinook
salmon spawning and rearing, the results of the hyporheic exchange analysis are interpreted with the particular aim
of pairing results with the timing of Chinook spawning and rearing activity.
Author(s): Kerry Riley & Jen Pierce
Title: The role of episodic fire-related debris flows on long-term sediment yields in the Middle
Fork Salmon River watershed, in central Idaho
Abstract:
Changes in climate influence the frequency and severity of fire and post-fire erosion. During the 1980’s frequency,
severity, and duration of large fires increased in the western United States. It remains unclear, however, if these
fires are extraordinary over Holocene timescales and what role fire plays in long-term sediment delivery. This study
investigates incised alluvial fans in the Middle Fork Salmon River (MFSR) to: 1) quantify sediment volumes from
recent fire-related debris flows, and 2) 14C-date charcoal from deposits to compare changes in fire-related
sedimentation with changes in climate during the last 10,000 yrs. On millennial timescales, fire frequency and firerelated sedimentation have increased during cooler/wetter conditions of the late Holocene. This increase may
correspond to the introduction of lodgepole pine to high elevation forests. During the last 2000 yrs, fire-related
debris flows from eight sub-basins are estimated to contribute ~119 ± 21 T/km2/yr of sediment. This estimate
conservatively accounts for ~50% of long-term (6500 yr) sediment yields suggesting that episodic fire-related debris
flows are a major contributor of sediment to the MFSR. Increased frequency and severity of fires during the late
Holocene is potentially caused by the response of vegetation to a cooler climate resulting in denser fuels that burn
more frequently in high severity fires. Annual to decadal scale drought (during millennial-scale wet intervals) could
produce fires across a range of ecosystems. Fire and fire-related sedimentation are playing significant roles in
sediment delivery to the MFSR and appear to be strongly controlled by climate and vegetation.
Education
Author(s): Kerry Riley & Brian Stark
Title: The benefits of outdoor learning in STEM education
Abstract:
Outdoor science education promotes awareness and understanding of the natural environment and is under utilized
in traditional education. Outdoor education benefits children by introducing them to new experiences, promoting
physical health, encouraging exploration, and creating exciting and memorable experiences. Children often question
“How does this relate to the real world”. Outdoor science is a tangible, self-rewarding, and stimulating way to
answer that question. Both structured and unstructured outdoor inquiry can be useful methods for teaching science to
children. The Foothills Learning Center and the MK Nature Center are non-traditional environmental education
centers that promote outdoor science education. One example of a lesson that exemplifies the benefits of learning
outside is the rock cycle lesson utilizing the close proximity of geological features to teach field geology. Students
work outside to make and record observations, collect evidence and then make interpretations based on that
evidence. A second example is the ‘Kids in the Creek’ lesson that provides the opportunity for children to explore a
river ecosystem. Students are equipped with a net and bucket and instructed to investigate a shallow section of river
to see what organisms they can find. They are provided with little background information, thus promoting selfdiscovery through inquiry. Students share their findings and the lesson concludes with a discussion about topics
students found interesting. These outdoor science activities promote physical health, self-discovery and encourage
students to build a lasting relationship with their natural surroundings.