Invited Luncheon Speaker - April 3, 2007 - Mindy Erickson

MPCA’s Ambient Ground Water Sampling Activities

Abstract

MPCA’s ambient ground water monitoring activities are often thought of the statewide baseline water chemistry survey conducted during the mid 1990s. But the baseline study is just one past project of the agency’s broad ambient ground water monitoring activities. During 2007, the MPCA will conduct a wide range of ground water monitoring to meet the ambient ground water monitoring program’s primary objectives, which are:

1. Assess impacts of non-agricultural chemicals on the condition of ground water in Minnesota
2. Evaluate trends in ambient ground water quality
3. Identify and monitor factors that affect ambient ground water quality
4. Provide expertise and sampling support for emerging environmental issues

Biography
Dr. Mindy Erickson leads MPCA’s ambient ground water monitoring activities, coordinates with other agencies, and collaborates in multi-disciplinary, inter-agency environmental research. She is also an adjunct professor at the University of Minnesota. Prior to joining MPCA, Dr. Erickson worked as an engineer and project manager for the consulting firm, RETEC, and as a team member on in a number of projects and research efforts with MDH, Mn/DOT, and the U of MN. She has BS and MS degrees in engineering, and a Ph.D. in Water Resources Science, from the University of Minnesota.