Science on Tap

Join us in the Bierhall for a Science on Tap Presentation!

6:30pm – Gather
7:00pm – Presentation Begins

Science On Tap is a monthly series of informal talks led by scientists that explore current research topics and the importance of science in our daily life. Each talk takes place in a relaxed pub atmosphere where communication flows freely between scientists and the public. Co-presented by Skidmore’s Environmental Studies and Sciences Program and Sustainable Saratoga, these monthly opportunities for discussion reflect the unique intellectual culture of the greater Capital Region and promote scientific literacy.

Admission is free and all ages are welcome. The talk will start promptly at 7:00pm.

Speaker: Professor Melissa DeSiervo, PhD

Talk title:  “Salting the Streams: How NY’s Road Salt Usage Is Disrupting Our Freshwater Ecosystems”

Talk description: Road salt usage varies extensively within the USA. In 2023 New York led the nation, applying more than 600,000 tons of dry sodium chloride road salt. Road salt enters our watersheds, negatively affecting drinking water quality and stream health. Nonetheless, there has been little investigation into how road salt in New York is affecting the health of benthic invertebrates, key players in stream food webs. Many benthic macroinvertebrates, aquatic insects who feed on the bottom of stream, break down plant matter, a key component of aquatic nutrient cycles. They are also a primary food source for fish, amphibians, and birds. Exposure to high amounts of chloride can cause invertebrates physiological stress or death, and thus road salt usage directly impacts the abundance of diversity of benthic invertebrates in our streams. Understanding the extent in which New York’s abnormally high use of road salt is affecting our steam ecosystems is key for watershed conversation, including setting data-informed recommendations for limits on pollution concentrations.  

Brief bio: Melissa DeSiervo, PhD, is an assistant professor in the Biology Department at Union College (Schenectady, NY). She is a population and community ecologist interested in species interactions and movement in a rapidly changing world. She primarily works on plants and insects in a variety of local and non-local ecosystems including forests, grasslands, ponds, and freshwater streams.

Please Note: Beer will be flowing, but the Bierhall kitchen will not be open. Come early to get a bite to eat in the Taproom across the street!