Institute for the Study of the Environment, Albion College
Student research and service projects
| Rice Creek Watershed |
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GIS Hydrology/ geochemistry Invertebrate populations Microbiology Policy Issues |
Environmental Sciences curriculum
Policy Issues Related to the Creek
| James Gignac, a Political Science major, was attracted to the project because of his interest in grassroots political action. The project grew out of citizens concern about a proposal to dispose of treated sewage in the creek. Another issue is the possibility of the nearby hog farm resuming operations. At one point it had as many as 25,000 hogs confined in buildings near the creek A background, but fundamental issue is Michigan's Drain Code, and its possible role in degrading the State's environment . |
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James researched the permitting process for the sewage and hog operations, followed the course of a citizens lawsuit, and interviewed many of the landowners near the creek. In the picture to the left, he is discussing this project and its implications with the U.S. Deputy Secretary of the Interior David Hayes during his visit to the Albion campus this fall. |