Here's how to start...
There are a number of ways that students can complete a Trent CBR research project. You either need to be enrolled in a Trent University or Fleming course that offers CBR. Current courses at Trent include but are not limited to: ERST 3080Y, ERST 3130H, ERSC 1010Y, ERSC 3160H, ERSC 3840H, ERST 4250H, BIOL 3890, FRSC 4890Y, GEOG 3820H, GEOG 4830Y, IDST 4220Y, and SUST 5901H.
There are a number of ways that students can complete a Trent CBR research project. You either need to be enrolled in a Trent University or Fleming course that offers CBR. Current courses at Trent include but are not limited to: ERST 3080Y, ERST 3130H, ERSC 1010Y, ERSC 3160H, ERSC 3840H, ERST 4250H, BIOL 3890, FRSC 4890Y, GEOG 3820H, GEOG 4830Y, IDST 4220Y, and SUST 5901H.
OR…
You can apply to do an independent project under the supervision of a faculty member. Most of our independent projects commence at the beginning of each semester, but opportunities may be available at any time throughout the year. Click here for an "Independent Student Project Application Form"
OR…
You can complete a CBR project as your master’s thesis. A number of community-based projects are broad in scope, require a high level of academic skill and more time for completion. Review the project descriptions for proposals that suggest group work or graduate level work. If a project interests you, contact us directly to discuss. CBR is a unique opportunity to apply your research skills while also gaining valuable professional experience!
Available 2023 - 2024 U-Links Projects (Haliburton County)
Below is a list of available projects in Haliburton County. If you are a student researcher and see a project that you are interested in or would like to learn more about them, you can also check out project here, email Daniela Pagliaro, Administration and Logistics Coordinator (admin@ulinks.ca) or submit an application form (link below).
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Benthic Macroinvertebrate Biomonitoring Projects
(Multiple Projects Available - CLICK HERE FOR FULL LIST!)
NOTE: These projects may involve a field component (semester dependent).
Benthic macro-invertebrates (or “benthics” or “benthos”) are aquatic, spineless organisms that live on the bottom of water bodies. Since the late 1980’s they have been used as biological indicators for common aquatic pollutants as they spend part or the entirety of their lives in the water. The use of benthics as an indicator of water quality is now used throughout the world and has been widely used in Ontario since the early 2000’s.
These community-based research projects are ideal for an undergraduate student as a full-term project and will include field work early in the fall. These projects can also be completed in the winter semester, which includes a lab component but no field work. Students are recommended to have OBBN certification or other previous field work experience.
(Multiple Projects Available - CLICK HERE FOR FULL LIST!)
NOTE: These projects may involve a field component (semester dependent).
Benthic macro-invertebrates (or “benthics” or “benthos”) are aquatic, spineless organisms that live on the bottom of water bodies. Since the late 1980’s they have been used as biological indicators for common aquatic pollutants as they spend part or the entirety of their lives in the water. The use of benthics as an indicator of water quality is now used throughout the world and has been widely used in Ontario since the early 2000’s.
These community-based research projects are ideal for an undergraduate student as a full-term project and will include field work early in the fall. These projects can also be completed in the winter semester, which includes a lab component but no field work. Students are recommended to have OBBN certification or other previous field work experience.
#5029 Delineating the Velocity of Climate Change in the Haliburton Highlands for the Haliburton Highlands Land Trust
NOTE: This project can be completed remotely.
The Haliburton Highlands Land Trust has as its mandate “to conserve plants, wildlife and clean water of Haliburton County to ensure a legacy of forests, fields and wetlands, and the species they nurture.” To achieve this goal the HHLT is acquiring lands of ecological and cultural significance for conservation purposes. Informed and science-based decision-making is necessary to acquire and manage these landscapes in perpetuity as is the main responsibility of HHLT. Analytical landscape evaluation processes and tools are seen to be key to HHLT decision-making for new acquisitions, land management, monitoring and stewardship endeavours.
This project has as one its purposes to critically review one method available for estimating the velocity of climate change in the Haliburton Highlands region. A second purpose is to recommend how this method can be applied by the HHLT for achieving its mandate of landscape conservation. This project is designed to for a single semester.
NOTE: This project can be completed remotely.
The Haliburton Highlands Land Trust has as its mandate “to conserve plants, wildlife and clean water of Haliburton County to ensure a legacy of forests, fields and wetlands, and the species they nurture.” To achieve this goal the HHLT is acquiring lands of ecological and cultural significance for conservation purposes. Informed and science-based decision-making is necessary to acquire and manage these landscapes in perpetuity as is the main responsibility of HHLT. Analytical landscape evaluation processes and tools are seen to be key to HHLT decision-making for new acquisitions, land management, monitoring and stewardship endeavours.
This project has as one its purposes to critically review one method available for estimating the velocity of climate change in the Haliburton Highlands region. A second purpose is to recommend how this method can be applied by the HHLT for achieving its mandate of landscape conservation. This project is designed to for a single semester.
#5064 Virtual Adaptation of Abbey Gardens on-site Sprouts to Snacks Program
NOTE: This project can be completed remotely.
Abbey Gardens is a non-for-profit organization with a mission to create opportunities to learn about living more sustainably, including learning about local food, gardening, energy, sustainable construction techniques, heritage agricultural animals, land restoration, and cooking techniques. The "Sprouts to Snacks" program ran successfully on site for two years with a local elementary school, engaging children in growing, harvesting, and preparing local food.
The effects of COVID-19 and increased bussing fees has prevented the program from occurring on-site. The purpose of this project is to create a hands-on, mostly virtual version of the "Sprouts to Snacks" program, and offer a hybrid on-line/on-site program, where it is accessed and used by educators in a school setting, and concludes with a field trip to Abbey Gardens. This project is designed to span one full school term, two semesters starting in September and ending in April.
NOTE: This project can be completed remotely.
Abbey Gardens is a non-for-profit organization with a mission to create opportunities to learn about living more sustainably, including learning about local food, gardening, energy, sustainable construction techniques, heritage agricultural animals, land restoration, and cooking techniques. The "Sprouts to Snacks" program ran successfully on site for two years with a local elementary school, engaging children in growing, harvesting, and preparing local food.
The effects of COVID-19 and increased bussing fees has prevented the program from occurring on-site. The purpose of this project is to create a hands-on, mostly virtual version of the "Sprouts to Snacks" program, and offer a hybrid on-line/on-site program, where it is accessed and used by educators in a school setting, and concludes with a field trip to Abbey Gardens. This project is designed to span one full school term, two semesters starting in September and ending in April.
#5094 Underground Greenhouse Feasibility Study
NOTE: This project can be completed remotely.
The purpose of this project is to research the feasibility of building an underground greenhouse/walipini for growing food in Haliburton County 12 months a year. How can sustainable features such as fishpond irrigation, geothermal and ceramic wood heat be integrated into the design? What innovative, local, or green engineering and construction features can be used? This project would aid in sustainability and self sufficiency for growing food in Haliburton County and provide an ongoing educational component to the area. This project is designed to span one full school term, from September to April.
NOTE: This project can be completed remotely.
The purpose of this project is to research the feasibility of building an underground greenhouse/walipini for growing food in Haliburton County 12 months a year. How can sustainable features such as fishpond irrigation, geothermal and ceramic wood heat be integrated into the design? What innovative, local, or green engineering and construction features can be used? This project would aid in sustainability and self sufficiency for growing food in Haliburton County and provide an ongoing educational component to the area. This project is designed to span one full school term, from September to April.
#5081 Serenity Wetland Assessment (Available for SPRING and SUMMER Semesters!)
NOTE: This project involves a field component.
Many of the wetlands in Haliburton County remain unclassified, with their provincial significance unknown. The Serenity Wetland Alliance (SWA), is a volunteer group dedicated to the protection of the Serenity Wetland in Highlands East, ON. The purpose of this project is to gather relevant data and complete an inventory of species present through research and fieldwork, to initiate an Environmental Impact Assessment. The results of this project will promote the awareness of wetlands and their importance, and support other groups and organizations who are considering seeking protections for wetlands in their communities. This project is designed to be conducted in the spring and summer semesters, from May-August.
*This project is best suited for a small group at the graduate level.
NOTE: This project involves a field component.
Many of the wetlands in Haliburton County remain unclassified, with their provincial significance unknown. The Serenity Wetland Alliance (SWA), is a volunteer group dedicated to the protection of the Serenity Wetland in Highlands East, ON. The purpose of this project is to gather relevant data and complete an inventory of species present through research and fieldwork, to initiate an Environmental Impact Assessment. The results of this project will promote the awareness of wetlands and their importance, and support other groups and organizations who are considering seeking protections for wetlands in their communities. This project is designed to be conducted in the spring and summer semesters, from May-August.
*This project is best suited for a small group at the graduate level.
#5115 Lakeshore Capacity Study of Gull Lake
NOTE: This project may involve a field component
The Lakeshore Capacity Assessment Handbook (LCAH), prepared by the Ministry of the Environment in partnership with the Ministries of Natural Resources and Municipal Affairs and Housing, was developed to provide guidance to municipalities and other stakeholders responsible for the management of development along the shorelines of Ontario's inland lakes within the Precambrian Shield. A Lakeshore Capacity Assessment can be used to predict the level of development that can be sustained along the shoreline of an inland lake on the Precambrian Shield without exhibiting any adverse effects related to high phosphorus levels.
The last time a Lakeshore Capacity Study was completed for Gull Lake was nearly 10 years ago. Since then, cottagers have increased their time spent at the lake and short-term rentals have continued to escalate (specifically in timeline since global COVID-19 pandemic). Gull Lake has populations of lake trout which is one of the circumstances used to trigger a Lakeshore Capacity Study. The purpose of this study is to determine the Lakeshore Capacity of Gull Lake by incorporating changes in development and nutrient inputs since the last assessment. This project is designed to span one semester, from September to December.
NOTE: This project may involve a field component
The Lakeshore Capacity Assessment Handbook (LCAH), prepared by the Ministry of the Environment in partnership with the Ministries of Natural Resources and Municipal Affairs and Housing, was developed to provide guidance to municipalities and other stakeholders responsible for the management of development along the shorelines of Ontario's inland lakes within the Precambrian Shield. A Lakeshore Capacity Assessment can be used to predict the level of development that can be sustained along the shoreline of an inland lake on the Precambrian Shield without exhibiting any adverse effects related to high phosphorus levels.
The last time a Lakeshore Capacity Study was completed for Gull Lake was nearly 10 years ago. Since then, cottagers have increased their time spent at the lake and short-term rentals have continued to escalate (specifically in timeline since global COVID-19 pandemic). Gull Lake has populations of lake trout which is one of the circumstances used to trigger a Lakeshore Capacity Study. The purpose of this study is to determine the Lakeshore Capacity of Gull Lake by incorporating changes in development and nutrient inputs since the last assessment. This project is designed to span one semester, from September to December.
#6115 Heritage Apple Project - Apple Preparation, Processing and Preservation Practices of the Past (APPPPP)
NOTE: This project involves a field component
The ATIP Haliburton organization was formed to collect information on Haliburton County apple orchards, including old and new varieties and locations. This project will research and identify historic processes used in apple preparation, processing and preservation in Ontario that were widely used prior to the availability of electric refrigeration. By uncovering historical practices and providing their reference for further study this project aims to encourage residents and businesses in Haliburton County to utilize their existing apple harvests more effectively, improving food security by lowering under-utilization. Introducing traditional apple practices into daily modern life can enhance food self-sufficiency, aid in the mitigation of climate change by reducing food transportation, and contribute to the cultural enrichment of Haliburton County with apple related social and tourism events. This project is designed to span one full school year from September to April.
NOTE: This project involves a field component
The ATIP Haliburton organization was formed to collect information on Haliburton County apple orchards, including old and new varieties and locations. This project will research and identify historic processes used in apple preparation, processing and preservation in Ontario that were widely used prior to the availability of electric refrigeration. By uncovering historical practices and providing their reference for further study this project aims to encourage residents and businesses in Haliburton County to utilize their existing apple harvests more effectively, improving food security by lowering under-utilization. Introducing traditional apple practices into daily modern life can enhance food self-sufficiency, aid in the mitigation of climate change by reducing food transportation, and contribute to the cultural enrichment of Haliburton County with apple related social and tourism events. This project is designed to span one full school year from September to April.
#6118 Characterizing Littoral Habitat, Water Quality, and Life (Bugs) at Minimally Impacted Shorelines in the Kawartha Lakes
NOTE: This project involves a field component
Kawartha Conservation is a watershed-based, non-profit organization established in 1979 by the municipalities within their watershed under the Conservation Authorities act. They are one of 36 conservation authorities operating in Ontario and a member of Conservation Ontario. Balancing environmental capacity and human need, they manage natural resource features that are essential for sustaining water quality and quantity, through watershed planning, stewardship, environmental monitoring and research, and management of conservation and natural areas. Their programs and services are focused within the natural boundaries of the Kawartha watershed, which extends from Lake Scugog in the southwest and Pigeon Lake in the east, to Balsam Lake in the northwest and Crystal Lake in the northeast - a total of 2,563 square kilometers. The purpose of this project is to characterize the habitat, water quality, and benthic community of minimally impacted littoral zones in the Kawartha Lakes to estimate the trajectory of shorelines health if development if projected to greatly increase in the region. This project is designed to span a single school year, from September to April.
NOTE: This project involves a field component
Kawartha Conservation is a watershed-based, non-profit organization established in 1979 by the municipalities within their watershed under the Conservation Authorities act. They are one of 36 conservation authorities operating in Ontario and a member of Conservation Ontario. Balancing environmental capacity and human need, they manage natural resource features that are essential for sustaining water quality and quantity, through watershed planning, stewardship, environmental monitoring and research, and management of conservation and natural areas. Their programs and services are focused within the natural boundaries of the Kawartha watershed, which extends from Lake Scugog in the southwest and Pigeon Lake in the east, to Balsam Lake in the northwest and Crystal Lake in the northeast - a total of 2,563 square kilometers. The purpose of this project is to characterize the habitat, water quality, and benthic community of minimally impacted littoral zones in the Kawartha Lakes to estimate the trajectory of shorelines health if development if projected to greatly increase in the region. This project is designed to span a single school year, from September to April.
#6119 Winter Water Quality Conditions in the Kawartha Lakes
NOTE: This project involves a field component
Kawartha Conservation is a watershed-based, non-profit organization established in 1979 by the municipalities within their watershed under the Conservation Authorities act. They are one of 36 conservation authorities operating in Ontario and a member of Conservation Ontario. Balancing environmental capacity and human need, they manage natural resource features that are essential for sustaining water quality and quantity, through watershed planning, stewardship, environmental monitoring and research, and management of conservation and natural areas. Their programs and services are focused within the natural boundaries of the Kawartha watershed, which extends from Lake Scugog in the southwest and Pigeon Lake in the east, to Balsam Lake in the northwest and Crystal Lake in the northeast - a total of 2,563 square kilometers. The purpose of this project is to assess the water quality of Kawartha Lakes in the winter season, specifically under the ice. This is specific to surface (directly underneath the ice) and bottom (within 1m above sediment) water quality to determine if winter conditions allow for internal loading due to a lack of oxygen. Results from this project can be used to shape future lake/subwatershed plans in the Kawartha Lakes, but can also be applied to Haliburton County. This project is designed to span one one full school term, from September to April.
NOTE: This project involves a field component
Kawartha Conservation is a watershed-based, non-profit organization established in 1979 by the municipalities within their watershed under the Conservation Authorities act. They are one of 36 conservation authorities operating in Ontario and a member of Conservation Ontario. Balancing environmental capacity and human need, they manage natural resource features that are essential for sustaining water quality and quantity, through watershed planning, stewardship, environmental monitoring and research, and management of conservation and natural areas. Their programs and services are focused within the natural boundaries of the Kawartha watershed, which extends from Lake Scugog in the southwest and Pigeon Lake in the east, to Balsam Lake in the northwest and Crystal Lake in the northeast - a total of 2,563 square kilometers. The purpose of this project is to assess the water quality of Kawartha Lakes in the winter season, specifically under the ice. This is specific to surface (directly underneath the ice) and bottom (within 1m above sediment) water quality to determine if winter conditions allow for internal loading due to a lack of oxygen. Results from this project can be used to shape future lake/subwatershed plans in the Kawartha Lakes, but can also be applied to Haliburton County. This project is designed to span one one full school term, from September to April.
#6058 Ground Beetle Monitoring at a Tall Grass Prairie Restoration Site - PHASE II
NOTE: This project involves a field component
Abbey Gardens has transformed a spent gravel pit into a green space providing economic and recreational opportunities for the community. Part of the property has been restored into a tall grass prairie, once abundant in Ontario. The purpose of this project is to look at insect abundance and diversity in response to restoration of the site. It will involve monitoring ground insects, specifically beetles, to understand the current level of biodiversity from introducing native plants. Several field and lab days will be required to collect, preserve, and identify beetles down to species level. This project will build on previous research conducted in 2022 where surveys could only take place in the fall. A more in-depth survey in the summer will provide more insight to the species within the site. This can be completed as a two semester project, either Summer-Fall (involves a field component), or Fall-Winter (no field component).
NOTE: This project involves a field component
Abbey Gardens has transformed a spent gravel pit into a green space providing economic and recreational opportunities for the community. Part of the property has been restored into a tall grass prairie, once abundant in Ontario. The purpose of this project is to look at insect abundance and diversity in response to restoration of the site. It will involve monitoring ground insects, specifically beetles, to understand the current level of biodiversity from introducing native plants. Several field and lab days will be required to collect, preserve, and identify beetles down to species level. This project will build on previous research conducted in 2022 where surveys could only take place in the fall. A more in-depth survey in the summer will provide more insight to the species within the site. This can be completed as a two semester project, either Summer-Fall (involves a field component), or Fall-Winter (no field component).
#6059 Seed Bank Feasibility Study of Norah's Island
NOTE: This project involves a field component
Norah’s Island is a 22-acre pristine island on Kennisis Lake. The seclusion, and limited access to visitors, makes the island an area where the old growth trees have not been ravaged by current diseases or disturbed by humans. The purpose of this study is to preserve the local flora for generations to come. Specifically, by completing a seed bank a feasible study for Norah’s Island. Students will visit the island to begin the seed collection process and inventory analysis for current plant and tree species. This project is designed to span one school year from September to April.
NOTE: This project involves a field component
Norah’s Island is a 22-acre pristine island on Kennisis Lake. The seclusion, and limited access to visitors, makes the island an area where the old growth trees have not been ravaged by current diseases or disturbed by humans. The purpose of this study is to preserve the local flora for generations to come. Specifically, by completing a seed bank a feasible study for Norah’s Island. Students will visit the island to begin the seed collection process and inventory analysis for current plant and tree species. This project is designed to span one school year from September to April.
#6049 Watershed Management Protocols and Practices
NOTE: This project can be completed remotely.
The Woodlands and Waterways EcoWatch is environmental-based programming facilitated by U-Links Centre for Community Based Research. WWEW was established to facilitate environmental initiatives in the Haliburton region to help fill the data gap relating to ecosystem heath. WWEW has implemented a citizen science model and works with students and faculty from Trent University and Fleming College to utilize their knowledge and expertise.
Watersheds are basins that catch precipitation and drain into streams, wetlands, lakes, or groundwater aquifers, whose borders are delineated by local geography. Haliburton County falls within 5 tertiary watersheds, all part of the Great Lakes – St. Lawrence River Watershed. Watershed management encompasses the local natural environment as well as human-environment interactions. WWEW currently monitors water quality in lakes and tree health in our forests, however there are many other parameters to investigate for a complete overview of the health of the entire watershed. The purpose of this project is to identify monitoring protocols for all ecosystem types, that lead to proper watershed management. This project is designed to span one semester, from January to April.
NOTE: This project can be completed remotely.
The Woodlands and Waterways EcoWatch is environmental-based programming facilitated by U-Links Centre for Community Based Research. WWEW was established to facilitate environmental initiatives in the Haliburton region to help fill the data gap relating to ecosystem heath. WWEW has implemented a citizen science model and works with students and faculty from Trent University and Fleming College to utilize their knowledge and expertise.
Watersheds are basins that catch precipitation and drain into streams, wetlands, lakes, or groundwater aquifers, whose borders are delineated by local geography. Haliburton County falls within 5 tertiary watersheds, all part of the Great Lakes – St. Lawrence River Watershed. Watershed management encompasses the local natural environment as well as human-environment interactions. WWEW currently monitors water quality in lakes and tree health in our forests, however there are many other parameters to investigate for a complete overview of the health of the entire watershed. The purpose of this project is to identify monitoring protocols for all ecosystem types, that lead to proper watershed management. This project is designed to span one semester, from January to April.
Matched Projects for the 2023-2024 Academic Year
Congratulations to the student researchers who have matched up with the following local research projects!
#5030 Watershed Mapping Profile and Protocol for the Haliburton Highlands Land Trust
NOTE: This project can be completed remotely.
The Haliburton Highlands Land Trust has as its mandate “to conserve plants, wildlife and clean water of Haliburton County to ensure a legacy of forests, fields and wetlands, and the species they nurture.” To achieve this goal the HHLT is acquiring lands of ecological and cultural significance for conservation purposes. Informed and science-based decision-making is necessary to acquire and manage these landscapes in perpetuity as is the main responsibility of HHLT. Analytical landscape evaluation processes and tools are seen to be key to HHLT decision-making for new acquisitions, land management, monitoring and stewardship endeavours.
This project entitled Watershed Mapping Profile and Protocol has as one its purposes to develop a spatial context of the HHLT properties and Haliburton Highlands surrounding areas in terms of their watershed composition. Watershed mapping in simple terms uses elevation and flow data to define catchment areas of water systems. Geographic information science is applied to generate the watershed maps. The protocol piece of the project has as its purpose the development of a workflow for using the watershed mapping products for such endeavours as habitat and land conservation. This project is designed to span a single semester.
NOTE: This project can be completed remotely.
The Haliburton Highlands Land Trust has as its mandate “to conserve plants, wildlife and clean water of Haliburton County to ensure a legacy of forests, fields and wetlands, and the species they nurture.” To achieve this goal the HHLT is acquiring lands of ecological and cultural significance for conservation purposes. Informed and science-based decision-making is necessary to acquire and manage these landscapes in perpetuity as is the main responsibility of HHLT. Analytical landscape evaluation processes and tools are seen to be key to HHLT decision-making for new acquisitions, land management, monitoring and stewardship endeavours.
This project entitled Watershed Mapping Profile and Protocol has as one its purposes to develop a spatial context of the HHLT properties and Haliburton Highlands surrounding areas in terms of their watershed composition. Watershed mapping in simple terms uses elevation and flow data to define catchment areas of water systems. Geographic information science is applied to generate the watershed maps. The protocol piece of the project has as its purpose the development of a workflow for using the watershed mapping products for such endeavours as habitat and land conservation. This project is designed to span a single semester.
#5057 Windy Pine Shoreline Rehabilitation Action Plan
Windy Pine Conference Centre is a property under the care of Canadian Studies at Trent University on Kushog Lake in the Algonquin Highlands. It acts as a recreational and academic site for Trent University and as a link between the University and Haliburton County. Concerns of erosion have arisen due to the naturally thin sandy soils along the roughly 300m rocky shoreline on the property. A baseline inventory was conducted in 2014 through Love Your Lake, and an initial CBE project (#4837) in 2019. This project is slated to expand on this inventory and give recommendations on how to best address problem areas on the site.
Windy Pine Conference Centre is a property under the care of Canadian Studies at Trent University on Kushog Lake in the Algonquin Highlands. It acts as a recreational and academic site for Trent University and as a link between the University and Haliburton County. Concerns of erosion have arisen due to the naturally thin sandy soils along the roughly 300m rocky shoreline on the property. A baseline inventory was conducted in 2014 through Love Your Lake, and an initial CBE project (#4837) in 2019. This project is slated to expand on this inventory and give recommendations on how to best address problem areas on the site.
#5080 Grace Lake Wetland Assessment (Available for SPRING and SUMMER Semesters!)
NOTE: This project involves a field component.
The Grace Lake Association (GLA) exists to represent the interests of the property owners on Grace Lake by advocating for the sustained good health of the lake, including the Grace Lake Wetland. GLA would like student researchers to collect data through research and fieldwork to determine what species are present, the ecological and cultural services, and the major water sources and boundaries of the wetland. The data collected can be used to initiate an Environmental Impact Assessment, and help GLA to better advocate for the protection of Haliburton's beautiful and vital wetlands.
*This project is best suited for a small group.
NOTE: This project involves a field component.
The Grace Lake Association (GLA) exists to represent the interests of the property owners on Grace Lake by advocating for the sustained good health of the lake, including the Grace Lake Wetland. GLA would like student researchers to collect data through research and fieldwork to determine what species are present, the ecological and cultural services, and the major water sources and boundaries of the wetland. The data collected can be used to initiate an Environmental Impact Assessment, and help GLA to better advocate for the protection of Haliburton's beautiful and vital wetlands.
*This project is best suited for a small group.
#5110 Haliburton County Agriculture & Food Production Assessment
NOTE: This project can be completed remotely.
Local agriculture and food production are significant parts of the Haliburton County economy and support access to healthy foods in the area. The purpose of this project is to assist the Haliburton County Farmer's Market Association and Harvest Haliburton in identifying barriers and opportunities for small farmers and food producers in the county. Student researchers will conduct surveys and interviews with local agriculture and food producers and identify best practices from similar small scale operations in Canada and abroad.
NOTE: This project can be completed remotely.
Local agriculture and food production are significant parts of the Haliburton County economy and support access to healthy foods in the area. The purpose of this project is to assist the Haliburton County Farmer's Market Association and Harvest Haliburton in identifying barriers and opportunities for small farmers and food producers in the county. Student researchers will conduct surveys and interviews with local agriculture and food producers and identify best practices from similar small scale operations in Canada and abroad.
#6117 Heritage Apple Project - Apple Tree Economic Cost Benefit Analysis (ATECBA)
NOTE: This project may involve a field component
The ATIP Haliburton organization was formed to collect information on Haliburton County apple orchards, including old and new varieties and locations. This research project aims to assess the potential for establishing a local apple industry in Haliburton County, with a focus on enhancing food security, stimulating economic growth, and promoting sustainable tourism. A student researcher(s) will conduct a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis to explore the viability of individuals growing apple trees on their properties. By conducting a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis and gathering foundational financial data, the project lays the groundwork for understanding the frameworks that individuals interested in contributing to the apple industry would be subject to. Thorough collection of this information will inform and guide the organizations strategic planning and decision-making over the coming years, guiding them in fostering a sustainable and thriving apple industry in Haliburton County.
NOTE: This project may involve a field component
The ATIP Haliburton organization was formed to collect information on Haliburton County apple orchards, including old and new varieties and locations. This research project aims to assess the potential for establishing a local apple industry in Haliburton County, with a focus on enhancing food security, stimulating economic growth, and promoting sustainable tourism. A student researcher(s) will conduct a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis to explore the viability of individuals growing apple trees on their properties. By conducting a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis and gathering foundational financial data, the project lays the groundwork for understanding the frameworks that individuals interested in contributing to the apple industry would be subject to. Thorough collection of this information will inform and guide the organizations strategic planning and decision-making over the coming years, guiding them in fostering a sustainable and thriving apple industry in Haliburton County.
#6018 Evaluation of Water Quality Testing Data of Haliburton County Lake Associations
NOTE: This project can be completed remotely.
In 2021, the Woodlands and Waterways EcoWatch (WWEW) and several Lake Associations in Haliburton County began discussing a Water Quality monitoring program that encompasses the entire County, as there is no such program that exists. Currently, water quality is measured by organizations such as the Lake Partner Program (LPP), the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks, or individually by the Lake Associations. In 2022 WWEW initiated a Pilot Water Quality Monitoring Program that is being conducted in partnership with 10 Lake Associations (23 lakes) with plans to be extended out to county in the future.
As part of this initiative, WWEW has begun collecting historical WQ data from other monitoring organizations for the 10 Pilot Lake Associations. The purpose of this project is to categorize the findings and develop a cohesive way to analyze and share this data with the Lake Association partners. Student(s) will review historic water quality data, generate a database, and identify any gaps. Students can also conduct analysis and provide insight into any trends.
NOTE: This project can be completed remotely.
In 2021, the Woodlands and Waterways EcoWatch (WWEW) and several Lake Associations in Haliburton County began discussing a Water Quality monitoring program that encompasses the entire County, as there is no such program that exists. Currently, water quality is measured by organizations such as the Lake Partner Program (LPP), the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks, or individually by the Lake Associations. In 2022 WWEW initiated a Pilot Water Quality Monitoring Program that is being conducted in partnership with 10 Lake Associations (23 lakes) with plans to be extended out to county in the future.
As part of this initiative, WWEW has begun collecting historical WQ data from other monitoring organizations for the 10 Pilot Lake Associations. The purpose of this project is to categorize the findings and develop a cohesive way to analyze and share this data with the Lake Association partners. Student(s) will review historic water quality data, generate a database, and identify any gaps. Students can also conduct analysis and provide insight into any trends.
#6020 Microplastics Analysis of Haliburton County Lakes
NOTE: This project can be completed remotely.
In 2021 WWEW and several Lake Associations in Haliburton County began discussing a Water Quality monitoring program that encompasses the entire County, as there is no such program that exists. In 2022 WWEW initiated a Pilot Water Quality Monitoring Program that is being conducted in partnership with 10 Lake Associations (23 lakes) with plans to be extended out to the county in the future. As part of this initiative, water samples were collected to monitor the presence of microplastics in the Lakes. The purpose of this project is to analyze these samples and identify if there are plastics pollution and what their possible sources may be. By identifying the sources, cottage owners can adapt their current practices to mitigate further pollution.
NOTE: This project can be completed remotely.
In 2021 WWEW and several Lake Associations in Haliburton County began discussing a Water Quality monitoring program that encompasses the entire County, as there is no such program that exists. In 2022 WWEW initiated a Pilot Water Quality Monitoring Program that is being conducted in partnership with 10 Lake Associations (23 lakes) with plans to be extended out to the county in the future. As part of this initiative, water samples were collected to monitor the presence of microplastics in the Lakes. The purpose of this project is to analyze these samples and identify if there are plastics pollution and what their possible sources may be. By identifying the sources, cottage owners can adapt their current practices to mitigate further pollution.
#6032 An Overview of North American Partners in Conservation Programs
The Haliburton Highlands Land Trust (HHLT) has identified a significant wildlife corridor of unceded public and private land covering 100,000 hectares. The HHLT own 2 properties within this Corridor and recognize the importance of private land stewardship in maintaining wildlife habitats and providing connectivity. Several private landowners have agreed to become HHLT Partners in Conservation (PIC), a new HHLT program that is currently being developed. This project will investigate other PIC projects in North America in order to provide information to the Land Trust on how to best continue this program successfully.
The Haliburton Highlands Land Trust (HHLT) has identified a significant wildlife corridor of unceded public and private land covering 100,000 hectares. The HHLT own 2 properties within this Corridor and recognize the importance of private land stewardship in maintaining wildlife habitats and providing connectivity. Several private landowners have agreed to become HHLT Partners in Conservation (PIC), a new HHLT program that is currently being developed. This project will investigate other PIC projects in North America in order to provide information to the Land Trust on how to best continue this program successfully.
#6069 Plant Monitoring at a Tall Grass Prairie Restoration Site
NOTE: This project involves a field component
Abbey Gardens has transformed a spent gravel pit into a green space providing economic and recreational opportunities for the community. Part of the property has been restored into a tall grass prairie, once abundant in Ontario. The purpose of this project is to conduct a plant inventory of the site to determine which native and non-native species are present at this time. Research questions include:
- How successful was the 2017/2022 seeding?
- What can be done to improve the germination rate/overall success of the seeding events?
*This project is best suited for a single student at the graduate level.
NOTE: This project involves a field component
Abbey Gardens has transformed a spent gravel pit into a green space providing economic and recreational opportunities for the community. Part of the property has been restored into a tall grass prairie, once abundant in Ontario. The purpose of this project is to conduct a plant inventory of the site to determine which native and non-native species are present at this time. Research questions include:
- How successful was the 2017/2022 seeding?
- What can be done to improve the germination rate/overall success of the seeding events?
*This project is best suited for a single student at the graduate level.
#6089 Heritage Apple Project - Apple Tree Identification
NOTE: This project involves a field component
The ATIP Haliburton organization was formed to collect information on Haliburton County apple orchards, including old and new varieties and locations. This is Phase I of a larger project to further develop a county-wide apple tree industry. The purpose of this first phase is to identify sites and site characteristics of existing orchards and trees (type of tree, condition, environment, etc.) and to identify general areas with similar site characteristics that may be suitable for new orchards. Research includes literature review, following up on the ATIP Apple Blossom Tour running this spring, and to examine the trees in-person.
NOTE: This project involves a field component
The ATIP Haliburton organization was formed to collect information on Haliburton County apple orchards, including old and new varieties and locations. This is Phase I of a larger project to further develop a county-wide apple tree industry. The purpose of this first phase is to identify sites and site characteristics of existing orchards and trees (type of tree, condition, environment, etc.) and to identify general areas with similar site characteristics that may be suitable for new orchards. Research includes literature review, following up on the ATIP Apple Blossom Tour running this spring, and to examine the trees in-person.
Completed 2022 - 2023 Projects:
#5121 Ground Beetle Monitoring on a Tall Grass Prairie Restoration Site
#5111 Abbey Retreat Centre Programming Evaluation Assessment
#5020 Health Benefits of Natural Plasters
#5108 Botanical and Entomological Study of the Minden Riverwalk
#5087 Exploring Eurasian Watermilfoil and the Impact on Lake Water Quality - Phase II
#6033 Monitoring Protocol for the HHLT Property: The Berry Wetland Reserve
#5088 Best Practices for Lake Monitoring and Management
#6019 Loon Habitat and Mortality Study
#5101 Halls and Hawk Lakes Benthic Assessment
#6021 Permanent Sample Plots for Barnum Creek Nature Reserve
#5040 Glamor Lake Benthic Assessment
#5098 Upper Stoney Lake Benthic Assessment
#5107 Beetle Taxa in Forest Regions
#5126 Blowflies Taxa in Forest Regions
#5089 Koshlong Lake Benthic Assessment
#5096 Gull Lake Benthic Assessment
#5095 Twelve Mile and Little Boshkung Lakes Benthic Assessment
#5099 Bob Lake Benthic Assessment
#6051 Grace Lake Benthic Assessment
#6052 Blue Skies Festival Bioblitz Plan
Children's Water Festival Activity Leads
Haliburton County Biomonitoring
#5111 Abbey Retreat Centre Programming Evaluation Assessment
#5020 Health Benefits of Natural Plasters
#5108 Botanical and Entomological Study of the Minden Riverwalk
#5087 Exploring Eurasian Watermilfoil and the Impact on Lake Water Quality - Phase II
#6033 Monitoring Protocol for the HHLT Property: The Berry Wetland Reserve
#5088 Best Practices for Lake Monitoring and Management
#6019 Loon Habitat and Mortality Study
#5101 Halls and Hawk Lakes Benthic Assessment
#6021 Permanent Sample Plots for Barnum Creek Nature Reserve
#5040 Glamor Lake Benthic Assessment
#5098 Upper Stoney Lake Benthic Assessment
#5107 Beetle Taxa in Forest Regions
#5126 Blowflies Taxa in Forest Regions
#5089 Koshlong Lake Benthic Assessment
#5096 Gull Lake Benthic Assessment
#5095 Twelve Mile and Little Boshkung Lakes Benthic Assessment
#5099 Bob Lake Benthic Assessment
#6051 Grace Lake Benthic Assessment
#6052 Blue Skies Festival Bioblitz Plan
Children's Water Festival Activity Leads
Haliburton County Biomonitoring