An Interdisciplinary Approach

Interdisciplinary research is complex, but integrating multiple subjects together is an important method in identifying solutions to complex problems. This summer, I have learned how to look at issues from numerous angles and have also obtained critical thinking skills through my involvement in interdisciplinary research. While the focus of my project is economic-based, I have had the opportunity to help with the other research projects and have gained a greater understanding of the local water quality issues.

Over the past five weeks of research, I have learned that creating a sustainable solution to phosphorus pollution in the local watershed is going to require more than one perspective. From participating on the dairy farm and boat tours, speaking with the locals, and observing the status of the lake’s water quality, I have seen the need for many voices of varying specializations to work together to achieve the common goal to improve the quality of the local surface water bodies. The LAKES program consists of 5 teams, and each team has a specific focus. These include biology, economics, political science, and geography. I am often sitting at a desk working on a computer, but it has been rewarding to jump on other teams’ projects and learn about their research efforts. From stuffing envelopes to reading survey responses, I am gaining awareness for the various methods of research implemented and how all projects relate to each other.

I have been following along closely with the biology team’s research because their work is hands-on and seems extremely complicated. Madeline and Marcella are experimenting with biochar as a way to mitigate phosphorus in bodies of water. Biochar is made by burning organic material for the purpose of storing carbon in an efficient manner. Their focus is on how they can use biochar to decrease the current phosphorus levels in the water, whereas my project’s focus is determining which agricultural policies are financially effective at preventing phosphorus buildup in the watershed. This is an important partnership because, while both projects address the main issue, they combat the different factors that make up the issue. If we only use economics to determine the actions that are effective at increasing water quality, we lose sight of other influencers that can contribute to reducing pollutant levels. It is important to take into account all approaches to solve the pollution problem effectively.