Researchers Lyubov Burlakova and Kim Irvine recieved funding for their project:

Lyubov Burlakova -- Great Lakes Research Consortium -- Preliminary Risk Assessment of the Parasites of Aquatic Invasive Invertebrates in the Great Lakes Region -- $9,473
The aim of this cooperative research is to conduct a preliminary parasitological risk analysis for exotic invertebrates introduced into the Great Lakes region. The objectives of the study reflect common components of the risk analysis process and include: i) literature search to identify the species of exotic invertebrates and their parasites that pose the highest risk of epizootics in the region ("hazard identification"); ii) field sampling at selected sites to reveal the current composition of parasites associated with risky exotic invertebrates ("risk estimation"); iii) compiling a database on the parasites of exotic invertebrates of the Great Lakes to promote information access to decision-makers ("risk management"). The results of this project can become a baseline for a long-term basin-wide program to monitor the parasitological consequences of introduction of exotic species, and will also be used in preparation of a larger grant proposal to a federal agency.

Kim Irvine -- CRA Infrastructure & Engineering -- Water Quality Sampling Plan for Smokes Creek -- $40,500
The intent of the sampling plan is to evaluate the benefits and impacts of eliminating discharges from the WWTP to Smokes Creek. Dr. Kim Irvine will coordinate and oversee all sampling. (more)