Nate heili
aquatic insect emergence in Irrigation ditches
This project investigates irrigation ditches as novel agricultural streams that promote ecological connections across aquatic-terrestrial boundaries through aquatic insect emergence. Most rivers in the state of Montana have been modified to store and deliver water resources for agricultural production. These modifications have necessitated vast networks of diversion infrastructure (i.e., irrigation ditches and canals) that transfer water from natural rivers to individual farms, altering hydrologic patterns at large spatial scales. The potential for canal networks to artificially influence floodplain habitat, biodiversity, and ecosystem services is not well known. Our research focuses on spatial and temporal patterns of aquatic insect emergence in three major canals in the lower Gallatin River watershed. We will produce emergence production scenarios using predictive models and vary our estimates based on changing water regimes and loss of diversion infrastructure from urban development.
Nate Heili is a MSc student in the Department of Ecology at Montana State University, advised by Dr. Wyatt Cross. His research focuses on ecosystem ecology, aquatic insect emergence, and agroecosystems. His current work bridges the gap between nonprofits, agricultural producers, and academics working in the lower Gallatin River watershed.