Mangrove, Crab and Shorebird Activity as Bioindicators to the Health Status of Mangrove Ecosystems along the Surinamese Coastline, South America

This study focused on the shorebird activity along the Surinamese coast in relation to the mangrove ecosystem health. The health of three estuarine mangrove areas was assessed using important bioindicators of the mangrove ecosystem: crabs, birds and mangroves. Mangrove vegetation was measured at Weg Naar Zee, Matapica canal delta and Coronie coast. Crab activity was measured by burrow and crab counts. Occurring shorebirds were also counted at these areas. The results show that mangrove regeneration and shorebird activity is significantly related to the health of the ecosystem. Weg Naar Zee was the most damaged and highest at risk. Matapica canal delta and the Coronie coast were the least damaged, with Coronie coast showing greatest health and biodiversity of the indicators.

Feasibility of Soil Vapor Extraction Systems in Low Permeability Soils

Soil vapor extraction (SVE)systems can be used to remediate enviornmental sites that have been contaminated with petroleum products. However, SVE systems rely on pore space in soils to draw the vapors through the soil, creating a vacuum. Therefore, SVE systems are not as effective when used in low permeability soils. This study aims to determine whether SVE systems can be used on low permeability soils in conjunction with companion technologies. The results indicate that SVE systems can be utilized in low permeability soils if used in conjunction with companion technologies that increase soil permeability and cantaminant volatilization. The promising companion technology is six-phase soil heating, based on contamination removal rate and cost estimates.