Semester of Graduation

Fall 2025

Degree

Master of Science (MS)

Department

The School of Plant, Environmental, and Soil Sciences

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

Water quality security is a complex management issue that is constantly challenged by factors of seasonal variability in climate change, urban population growth, and agricultural intensification. These factors warrant the need for innovative technological adaptations to management practices that integrate remote monitoring, predictive modeling, and sustainable resource utilization. This study establishes a framework for sustainable water quality practices through the integration of remote sensing technology for urban wastewater treatment and agricultural irrigation systems. This dual-site research study explores seasonal water quality dynamics and technological interventions to create a more proactive approach to water quality security.

In the first study, water quality metrics were collected continuously for a year from the Gonzales Wastewater Treatment Facility using Yellow System Instruments (YSI) EXO2 multiparameter sonde. The objective of this study was to characterize seasonal variation in water quality parameters that influence the performance of biological nitrogen removal (BNR) in subtropical climate zones. The collection of hourly data at points of influent and effluent wastewater presented significant correlations between water temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO), and the efficiency of nitrogen processing. The conclusion of this study resulted in the identification of critical factors of vulnerability for BNR and offers insight into a proactive water quality management of operations.

The second study assessed the impact of floating photovoltaic technology at the Louisiana State University Hammond Research Station (Hammond, LA) by sampling water quality (YSI EXO2) to aid algal biomass management in agricultural irrigation systems under the generation of panel shading. The floating photovoltaic array served a dual purpose of energy generation along with inhibiting solar radiation from entering the water column. By doing so, algal proliferation may be controlled in the irrigation detention pond while water quality parameters may be characterized to develop the framework for predictive modeling of algal biomass management.

This dual-site investigation offers insight for environmental management by establishing a comprehensive framework of climate influenced water quality management through the integration of technological solutions.

Date

10-31-2025

Committee Chair

Hayes, Michael P.

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