Dragonfly Scholar Program 2020: Meet April

Meet April Sharp, Our 2020 Dragonfly Scholar! The Dragonfly Pond Works Scholar program partners North Carolina State University juniors and seniors majoring in Agricultural and Environmental Technology, Applied Ecology, and/or Forestry and Environmental Resources with mentors from Dragonfly Pond Works. Dragonfly Scholars have the opportunity to study real world projects with the support of the Dragonfly Team and their NCSU faculty mentor. Recently, April took time to discuss her research and experience in the Scholar program.

All Photos Provided by April Sharp

What inspired you to apply for the Dragonfly Scholar Program?

When I learned that the Dragonfly Scholar program was being expanded to students in the department of Applied Ecology, I decided to submit a project proposal which would examine how stormwater control measures act as ecosystems. I wanted to develop a study that would approach the effects of stormwater control devices, such as constructed wetlands, from an ecological perspective. Studying the ecology of these devices plays an important role in assessing how stormwater control benefits the surrounding environment.

Please tell us more about your research.

The aim of my research is to gain understanding of the habitat quality of stormwater control measures in urban residential areas by analyzing macroinvertebrate biodiversity. North Carolina is currently experiencing a boom in residential development, especially around the RTP area. This increase in housing developments such as neighborhoods and apartment complexes increases the area of impervious surfaces, thereby increasing stormwater runoff. The implementation of stormwater control measures such as retention ponds and constructed wetlands helps to mitigate this issue by using engineered devices to store and filter wastewater before it enters streams and rivers. I am interested in the environmental quality of these stormwater control measures because they may have direct effects on the quality of downstream habitats. As macroinvertebrates are environmental indicators, analyzing the biodiversity of aquatic fauna in relation to their pollution sensitivities can give insight towards the health of aquatic ecosystems. My research adds to the body of knowledge of how managed stormwater discharge resulting from residential development impacts the health and ecology of freshwater systems through the lens of macroinvertebrate biodiversity. The Dragonfly Pond Works scholarship program has allowed me to explore different methods of sampling macroinvertebrates, as well as water quality tests for additional data. Dragonfly Pond Works also gave me access to stormwater control measures that they currently maintain to use in my study.

What does your typical research day look like?

In a typical day of research, I start by making observations on the size, depth, vegetation, and surroundings of each of the constructed wetlands. Using chemical indicator tests, I test the water for the presence of common chemicals indicative of fertilizer runoff from nearby lawns. I also test for suspended particulate matter in the water. These factors are often important in determining what organisms can live in waterbodies. Next using a kick net, I sample for macroinvertebrates by scooping along the bottom substrate and through vegetation. I then sort through and identify the organisms to their taxonomic family before releasing them back into the pond. I love the opportunity to spend time outdoors while conducting this study, especially since I can continue sampling while adhering to social distancing guidelines.

What has been the most interesting or rewarding aspect of your research so far?

It has been very interesting to observe the ecological diversity at each of the sites that I have visited. I am amazed by how all the stormwater devices I have visited not only support the environment by managing runoff and sequestering pollutants, but also act as thriving ecosystems for native aquatic organisms.

What advice do you have for prospective Dragonfly Scholars?

I highly encourage any student with an interest in environmental engineering, assessment, management, or ecology to apply to the Dragonfly Scholars program. As the necessity for stormwater control measures rises due to urbanization, so does the need to increase our body of knowledge regarding their implementation and environmental effects. This program allows for students like me to develop novel research ideas in the context of urban stormwater control, and has increased my understanding of the importance of these devices.

How do you think this experience will impact your future career and/or future research?

The Dragonfly Scholar program has been an amazing opportunity for me to gain valuable experience in research and ecological field methods. I have learned so much from this experience through developing and implementing an experimental design and from speaking with professionals in the Dragonfly team. This experience will help me become a better researcher, and further my studies in insect ecology and conservation.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Working with the Dragonfly Pond Works team has been an amazing experience. After spending time at a number of their sites, it is clear how much time and care goes into the design and maintenance of their stormwater control measures. I am very grateful to everyone on the Dragonfly team who have been helping me along the way and I look forward to sharing my findings soon!

Thank you to April from Team Dragonfly for sharing your experience, your partnership, and your valuable research!

Subscribe to our newsletter to receive informative and engaging news delivered right to your inbox.

Find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn for news, events, and more!

Dragonfly Pond Works is a lake, pond, and stormwater management company. We provide stormwater maintenance, stormwater control measure repair, and more throughout North Carolina, in Raleigh, Durham, Charlotte, Cary, and Wilmington. Our pond and lake maintenance services can be found throughout Florida, in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Naples, Sarasota, Fort Myers, and Orlando. We also provide lake and pond maintenance in Myrtle Beach, Charleston, and Columbia, South Carolina, and Atlanta, Georgia. We strive to develop long-term relationships based on quality work, timely service, cost-efficiency, and of course, trust. Please contact us to learn more.