Sorption and Release of Nickel and Zinc Using a Mixed-Algae Community Collected from a Mine Drainage Passive Treatment System

Abstract

I wish to express my gratitude to all of those who have helped me in the process of finishing my thesis research. A special thanks to the Grand River Dam Authority (GRDA) for funding this research. Thank you to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for their funding of the Mayer Ranch Passive Treatment System (MRPTS). I would also like to acknowledge Rich Zamor and Steve Nikolai at the GRDA Ecosystems and Education Center (EEC) laboratory for their assistance and allowing me to use equipment during my repeated visits to identify samples of algae. I would like to share my gratitude to my graduate research committee, Dr. Robert Nairn, Dr. Elizabeth Butler, and Dr. David Sabatini, who provided much-needed guidance and helpful suggestions along the way. The Center for Restoration of Ecosystems and Watersheds (CREW) team all offered strong moral support, helpful suggestions, and ready assistance whenever I needed a hand. I would like to thank CREW members,