From the classroom to the swamp: catching up with DES' Faustina Owusu

Environmental Sciences PhD candidate Faustina Owusu moves between the classroom and field as she pursues her passions in research, education, and mentorship.

Owusu, a recipient of a 2024 Giving Day scholarship, works as a graduate assistant at the Eva Legard Center for Coastal and Environmental Studies - a coastal and environmental sciences focused middle school - while completing her dissertation research on the role of cypress trees in wetland restoration, as part of Linda Hooper-Bui’s Ecosystem Ecology Lab. She is also in her 3rd year as mentor in the EnvironMentors program.

Tell us a little bit about your research

My research is on evaluating the impact of nitrate levels, seasonal changes, and site conditions on soil strength and bald cypress restoration success in Breton Sound, Louisiana.

There is research that shows that elevated nitrates can lead to increased microbial activity, which breaks down organic matter rapidly. This process can weaken soil structure and reduce soil strength, making it less stable to support plant growth and vegetation.

So, my research is basically to evaluate how much the increased nitrogen levels affect the soil strength and examine how these changes affect the growth and survival of bald cypress trees. Additionally, it explores the potential role of cypress trees in improving soil conditions and contributing to the restoration of degraded wetlands.

How often do you go out in the field?

Last year, I went on four visits. We set up the experiment in 2023, and the planting was done alongside CRCL [Commission to Restore Coastal Louisiana]. This project is executed in close collaboration with Mr. Ryan Lambert who designed, funded, and implemented the project which built 4000 acres of land in 2 years for ~$200.00 an acre in Quarantine Bay and Bay Denesse. The trees he planted years ago have helped build land along the coast over time.

From my experiment so far, we've realized most of the trees are dying… It could be [because] some trees were planted on high land, they don't really have access to a lot of water. There is also an experiment that shows trees planted close to each other communicate with each other through mycorrhizal fungi and share nutrients and water. So it could be either the trees on high ground do not have sister trees around them to keep them thriving, or it could be a water problem, or it could be too much nitrogen problem. We are still researching the cause

Does this research inform your work at Eva Legard? Do you talk to the students about it? 

Yes, it does. For instance, when the social studies teacher was covering land loss in Louisiana, I took the opportunity to share insights from my research with the students. Whenever there’s a chance to tie real-life examples from my project to what the teacher is discussing, I make sure to include them. I believe this approach serves as a strong source of motivation and inspiration for the students.

You are also in your third year as a mentor for the EnvironMentors program. How does that fit into all of your other work?

While my role as a mentor is to guide and teach, I find that I learn just as much from them. They remind me of the importance of fresh ideas and the excitement of discovery. What stands out most is their dedication. After a full day of school, they choose to come back for the program with so much enthusiasm to tackle extra challenges. This level of commitment motivates me to continue pushing boundaries in my own work and to find more ways to connect my research to their experiences.

What have you learned about science education through your work at Eva Legard and with EnvironMentors?

Working with students at Eva Legard and through EnvironMentors has taught me that science is best learned through hands-on activities and real-life examples. When students see how science connects to their daily lives or local community, they become more interested and excited to learn. Making science fun and easy to understand helps students feel more confident and curious.

You were the recipient of the Giving Day scholarship last year. How did that help you?

It paid off my fees, which was very helpful. The remaining amount I [put toward] a new laptop. I am taking a GIS class, and my computer doesn't have a lot of space. I need to get an advanced laptop so the remaining amount from the Giving Day scholarship will be topped up for a laptop.

Any final words? Anything you want to say about your research?

Let's all protect the environment! Try to do your little best to reduce your carbon footprint, because this is the world we have.