Claremore Daily Progress

Our View

May 5, 2009

<b>CHEROKEE CHAT - </b> PhD tribal water quality standards

Cara Cowan Watts

May 5, 2009 — This Friday, I will participate in the Graduation Ceremony for Graduate students at Oklahoma State University (OSU).

Although I have a month or so before I defend my dissertation, there is no summer graduation ceremony.

When I defend my dissertation in front of a Committee of four OSU professors and earn their approval, I will graduate with a Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) in Biosystems Engineering.

My dissertation topic is 'Numerical Nutrient Criteria Supporting Cherokee Nation's Culturally Significant Waters.' The research has a direct benefit to the Cherokee Nation and Oklahoma.

When I am done, I will be able to present my findings to the Cherokee Nation Environmental Protection Commission for incorporation in our future Tribal Water Quality Standards. The final paper will be available online at okstate.edu.

My research is investigating phosphorus and nitrogen nutrients and the algae response in rivers and streams. One aspect of the research investigates the Oklahoma Scenic River standard for phosphorus on rivers such as the Illinois.

Without scientifically defensible water quality standards, water rights are hollow.

Many of you have supported me throughout my research which began in June of 2005. As I wrap up this life journey, I want to invite you to join my family and I at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 8 in Stillwater. A local gathering will be held after I complete my work.

Special thanks to the National Science Foundation for my Louis Stokes Fellowship support as well as Oklahoma State University Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering.

To contact the Tribe, call 453-5000. The operator will connect you with the appropriate department.

Tribal programs and services are administered by the Chief's staff at the Tribal Complex. Tribal hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Save a trip to Tahlequah by using the Tribe's Internet tools at www.cherokee.org. Almost all applications are available online to print from home.

If you have questions, issues or concerns about the Cherokee Nation government, please email me at cara@caracowan.com or write me at P.O. Box 2922, Claremore, OK 74018.

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