Image: The rapid-response research investigates Hurricane Helene’s impact on the Oconee River watershed, a vital water source for Athens-Clarke County, Georgia. As climate change intensifies the frequency and severity of extreme weather events like hurricanes, understanding their effects on natural water systems has become increasingly important. Hurricane Helene’s heavy rainfall and flooding likely carried pollutants from urban, agricultural, and industrial sources into the watershed, introducing contaminants such as pesticides. These pollutants disrupt natural nutrient cycles and alter microbial communities essential for maintaining ecosystem balance. By investigating both the immediate and long-term effects of the hurricane, this study aims to uncover how such events influence water quality and ecosystem health. The research has significant implications for advancing scientific understanding of climate impacts on natural systems and will contribute to developing improved water management strategies to protect public health and environmental sustainability. UGA Research Assistant Type of News/Audience: Department News Read More: Dutta Geomicrobiology Lab
