Poster Title: Ecosystem Modeling and Scenario Forecasting in Eleven Penokee Lakes using WiLMS
Student: Jordan Bremer
Faculty Advisor: Matthew Hudson

Poster

Abstract
Ecosystem Modeling and Scenario Forecasting in Eleven Penokee Lakes using WiLMS
Jordan Bremer, Matt Hudson, David Ullman, Sharon Anthony

One of the main nutrients that is monitored within water bodies is phosphorus because it is one of the most essential nutrients for plant life, but when there is too much of it in water, it can speed up eutrophication which threatens the current habitat living around and within them. This study will be using the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR)’s WiLMS (Wisconsin Lake Modeling Suite) model to predict total phosphorus (TP) load and concentrations; as well as, where this phosphorus will be coming from when looking at land cover, due to soil erosion, and septic system abundance. The lakes’ current states of being exhibit “healthy” conditions with their predicted and observed average phosphorus concentrations being below the TP Criteria of 30 ug/L – 40 ug/L, set by the WDNR. Although, with a future development scenario created by dividing the current parcels into the minimum areas they could potentially become, Long, East Twin, and Maki would exceed their TP Criteria’s due to their vulnerability of being smaller watersheds area-wise. These results will be included into preventative management methods and a plan to attempt to remain under the designated TP criteria.

Poster Title: PCR tests suggest Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever is present among ticks in Bayfield County
Student: Samantha R. Harrington
Faculty Advisor: Geoffrey Vincent

Poster

Abstract
PCR tests suggest Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever is present among ticks in Bayfield County
Samantha R. Harrington and Geoffrey Vincent

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF) is a disease spread by various species of wood ticks infected with Rickettsia rickettsii bacteria. RMSF is one of the most serious diseases spread by ticks and can be fatal if not caught early. Despite its name, cases appear mostly in the Appalachian and mid-south regions of the United States. Because of its relative rarity, not many data exist in Wisconsin on the presence of R. rickettsia among wood ticks, especially locally. This research was conducted for the Bayfield County Department of Health, to assess the prevalence of ticks infected with R. rickettsia and B. burgdorferi (which causes RMSF and Lyme disease, respectively). From June 18, 2020 to August 16, 2020; 8 collections boxes were available throughout Bayfield County for community members to deposit ticks. Ten I. scapularis and 47 D. variabilis and were deposited, identified by markings, size, and other distinguishable features. Samples were tested for both R. rickettsia and B. burgdorferi using PCR. Analysis via electrophoresis indicates that one male D. variabilis and zero I. scapularis were positive for R. rickettsia. No ticks tested positive for B. burgdorferi. The positive sample was collected from the Bayview Beach pavilion in Washburn on July 17, 2020. The results of this study show that while locally transmitted infections of RMSF are rare, they are possible. Further testing is required to accurately portray the proportion of infected ticks in Bayfield County.

Poster Title: Tolerance of anthropogenic soil contaminants in cultured B. subtilis and twelve species of wild-sourced soil bacteria
Student: Garion Leamon
Faculty Advisor: Alissa Hulstrand

Poster

Abstract
Tolerance of anthropogenic soil contaminants in cultured B.subtilis and twelve isolated species of wild soil bacteria
Garion R. Leamon1, Alissa Hulstrand, PhD
Northland College

March 31, 2021

The main purpose of this project is to study and document the effects of common agrochemical, fuels, and inorganic salts present in the environment as soil contaminants on twelve species of bacterium isolated from two wild soils and the common soil microbe B. subtilis. This data can be used to infer the ecological impacts of these chemicals on soil function, biodiversity, and overall soil health through representative species of cropland regions in the central United States as well as the mixed forest regions of Lake Superior’s southern shore. Doses of seven treatment chemicals are administered, facilitated by introducing two paper test discs impregnated with the chemicals to each lawn. These chemicals are delivered in two doses per species: a “high dose” consistent with concentrations recorded at or near sources of contamination, and a “low dose” representing prevalence of each chemical at its half-life population where applicable or adjacent infiltration levels for inorganic compounds. Fatality is determined by measuring zones of inhibition 24- and 48-hours after inoculation for fast-growing specimens, or 36- and 50- hours for slower growing specimens. Other changes such as tolerances that may provide inference on altered or inhibited ecological function are also noted. Testing yielded a variety of results across the spectrum of tested species, elaborating upon the importance of classifying tolerance of contaminants on a per taxa basis to better understand the influence of land use on biogeochemical functions occurring in soils. Treatment chemicals are exhibited to be devastating to some species while mildly effective to others. Furthermore, some show a tendency to be metabolized by some species over time, in some cases not inhibiting growth at all, or inhibiting all growth in other tests. Notably some important minerals are shown to even boost growth of two species in proximity to the testing disks, even at concentrations that are considered average to moderately high in EPA soil surveys.

Poster Title: Evaluating water quality in Chequamegon Bay, Lake Superior, relative to Green Bay, Lake Michigan
Student: Reane Loiselle
Faculty Advisor: Dave Ullman & Matt Hudson

Poster

Abstract
Evaluating water quality in Chequamegon Bay, Lake Superior, relative to Green Bay, Lake Michigan Reane Loiselle, Matt Hudson, Dr. Dave Ullman
Northland College, Mary Griggs Burke Center for Freshwater Innovation

Understanding the health and water quality trajectory of Chequamegon Bay is a crucial aspect of understanding our water resources under pressure from climate change and human development. One step is understanding how the water quality conditions in Chequamegon Bay compare to another Great Lakes embayment currently experiencing water quality issues. This analysis allows for a deeper understanding of the scope of water quality threats to Chequamegon Bay as well as possible outcomes if water quality is not properly managed.

Key water quality parameters Chlorophyll-a and Total Phosphorous were collected from Chequamegon Bay and compared to data from Green Bay collected by the Green Bay NEW water to determine the comparative health of both. Mean levels of Chlorophyll (Chl-a) and Total Phosphorous (TP) as well as annual and long-term spatial and temporal trends throughout the study sites were analyzed.

Chl-a and TP values in Green Bay were found to be much higher than in than Chequamegon Bay. Land cover and land use in the Green Bay watershed is likely the cause and what has led to algal blooms. Supporting this, a correlation was found between Chl-a and TP showing that increasing TP load to Chequamegon Bay will likely cause increasing Chl-a levels and a higher risk of Cyanobacteria blooms. While Chequamegon Bay is not experiencing severe issues yet, increased development in the watershed could lead to a situation similar to Green Bay.

Poster Title: Abundance of Dermacentor variabilis (American dog tick) and Ixodes scapularis (deer tick) in The Maxwell Property (Ashland,WI)
Student: Erick Marchessault
Faculty Advisor: Geoffrey Vincent

Poster

Abstract
Abundance of Dermacentor variabilis (American dog tick) and Ixodes scapularis (deer tick) in The Maxwell Property (Ashland,WI)
Erick Marchessault
Northland College

The two most abundant tick species in Northern Wisconsin are the Dermacentor variabilis (American dog tick) and Ixodes scapularis (deer tick), these ticks carry bacteria like Rickettsia spp. and Borrelia spp.. These bacteria can cause diseases like Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Lyme disease, respectively. By collecting ticks in an area, I found the abundance of ticks over two seasons (late April to August) to look for trends. I also used dry iced traps in June and July of 2020 to collect ticks and test effectiveness of the traps. Based off research and monitoring done by the University of Wisconsin-Madison, I expected to collect more Dermacentor variabilis. To collect ticks I used two methods, the blanket drag and dry ice trap. Multiple weather and spatial variables were recorded before each collection, this was done by using a Kestrel device and objective measurements. In during the 2019 season 205 ticks (203 Dermacentor variabilis, 2 Ixodes scapularis) were collected, during the 2020 season 203 ticks (189 Dermacentor variabilis, 19 Ixodes scapularis) were collected, totaling 408 ticks (387 Dermacentor variabilis, 21 Ixodes scapularis). Having a majority of Dermacentor variabilis ticks collected was what was to be expected for this area. Analyzing data, it appears June has the largest abundance of ticks and May has the largest average number of ticks collected per visit. Looking further, we will be testing all the ticks for the presence of both rickettsia spp. and borrelia spp. bacterial DNA as well as continuous monitoring.

Poster Title: The Chinook Jargon and it/its Oppression on Alaska Natives
Student: Aubrey Champagne
Faculty Advisor: Erica Hannickel

Poster

Abstract
Chinook Jargon and It/its Oppression on Alaska Natives
Aubrielle Marie Champagne

“But if thought corrupts language, language can also corrupt thought.” ― George Orwell, 1984.

Authorial intent can be historically described in ways to exemplify constructed linguistic criticisms. Traditional values are implemented and passed down by the mother, which influenced people’s perspective of patriarchal societal values. This developed a type of structural language that influenced the way people communicated. There were different sided perspectives in relation to the amount of area that was colonized and by whom, even different fur traders from the same country had two different perspectives on the people. Major cultural influences occurred during the early developments of trading, especially within Alaska. The development of language and different historical traumas occurred in various ways. For example, when people think about historical perspectives one dives into the aspect of historically relevant events that altered the way people lived in that area. Most indigenous cultures within Alaska are made up of matriarchal values and constructed in a traditional way. Since Alaska has a vast wilderness, tribes are spread out and there are over 231 federally recognized tribes. Rural aspects of living are considered the Alaska Native way of life. Traditional cultures can also exemplify why certain individuals perceive the world different, one might even infer that language structure can relate to cultural perspectives. This goes with the example of dialects and the geographical aspects that shape different dialects. Consider early literature and how it’s produced, it’s likely provided by educational patterns and way of learning that said language; for example, what is historically known about language and the people who speak it. When thinking about the context of language one must think about perspective and this education could be related to trauma brought by the onset language. For example, if one was beaten from speaking that language it’s harder to teach to people who are reluctant to revisit that type of trauma. People also considered other aspects of what this type of colonization did to Native Americans, genocide was also considered to be related to trauma and grief. The boarding schools implemented the worst possible outcome for language revitalization and due to the language barriers physical violence was determined to be the most persistent form of discipline. With all things considered, it’s important to look at the development of a language in order to figure out where people went wrong. The major forms of increased linguistic theories result in also understanding the psychological effect of the people that are speaking the language. This theory resulted from Samarin’s point of view on the chinook jargon and the consideration of what boarding school did to people in order to implement colonized America. Possible considerations need to be taken strongly in order to find the fully understand what impacted the language. Ultimately, language revitalization is reflective and resulted from historical trauma: including the denigration of the Chinook Jargon, lost languages, and traumatized cultures.

Poster Title: Security Risks and Moral Ambiguity: Unearthing the Experience of Queer Soldiers  in the U.S. Military from the 1940s-1990s
Student: Emily Knipp
Faculty Advisor: Erica Hannickel

Poster

Abstract
Security Risks and Moral Ambiguity: Unearthing the Experience of Queer Soldiers in the U.S. Military from the 1940s-1990s
Emily Knipp
Northland College, History and Education Major

History has long excluded queers from its narrative, military history especially, however the queer community has always existed and has always been a part of these stories despite those in power attempting to remove them. This paper examines first hand sources from queer service people through out recent U.S. history, from the Lavender Scare through Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell, detailing their struggle. These struggles and hardships cannot go unacknowledged or be allowed to continue if we as a nation wish to call ourselves accepting or tolerant, one’s identity should not stop them from serving their country nor should it be cause for discrimination or hatred. The fact that this part of queer history goes unknown simply adds to the issue, it erases the pain of the experience so many queer individuals have suffered through as a part of the U.S. Military and pushes queer identities into the background, or the closet, and out of sight from general society. This paper compares various anti-queer policies and witch hunts in the U.S. Military through the lense of individual experience as well as public opinion and reaction in order to increase understanding of past homophobia so that we may combat it moving forward and work towards creating a culture of tolerance within the U.S. Military.

Poster Title: Whose Health Matters? An Analysis of Erin Brockovich within the Context of U.S. Environmental Racism
Student: Mandelyn Lyons
Faculty Advisor: Erica Hannickel

Poster

Abstract
Whose Health Matters? An Analysis Of Erin Brockovich Within The Context Of U.S. Environmental Racism
Mandelyn Lyons
Northland College
March 31, 2021

Environmental racism within the United States is starting to gain traction as a legitimate social justice issue warranting serious investigation and solutions. However, while environmental racism is gaining notoriety within academic and activist communities, the average American is barely exposed. Erin Brockovich, a film that debuted in 2000, centers on the storyline of activist and lawyer, Erin Brockovich’s first major environmental lawsuit in Hinkley, California where white residents were unknowingly being exposed to hexavalent chromium from the Pacific Gas & Electric Company. While the film centers a case of white health due to environmental degradation, analysis of the film has found that there is little to no discussion about how race, gender, and environment connect to health. Yet, there are strong parallels between the Hinkley case and what happens to black, brown, and Indigenous communities that experience environmental racism. Thus, while Erin Brockovich is a palatable introduction to environmental racism for primarily white viewers, it does not explicitly mention race and its connections to the environment.

Poster Title: Combating Racism in U.S. and Canadian Hockey
Student: Matt Murphy
Faculty Advisor: Erica Hannickel

Poster

Abstract
Combating Racism in U.S. and Canadian Hockey
Matt Murphy
Northland College
March 28, 2021

Racism is prevalent in North America today. Even with the current Black Lives Matter movement, and civil rights revolutionaries of the 1950s like Rosa Parks doing their part, racism is still a part of culture in Canada and the United States. This project examines racism in the sport of ice hockey, specifically racism in Canada and the United States. The intention of the paper was to examine racism in hockey, while also exploring ways to foster antiracism in hockey. The first black player to play in the National Hockey League was Willie O’Ree. Willie played for the Boston Bruins in the 1950s and was subjected to vicious racial taunts from fans and players alike. More than 60 years later, a young player in Toronto, Myles Douglas, received similar slurs from opponents. Black people, young and old are suffering from racism in the sport of hockey. The solution proposed is an anti racism certification within minor and professional teams and leagues. To be certified the hockey team, organization, or league must have a zero-tolerance policy for acts of racism, while offering mandatory inclusion training for all in the organization. A code of ethics should accompany the certification to establish acceptable behaviors. Although black hockey players are structurally put behind the eight ball to start, an anti racism certification will enable positive change in eliminating racism in North American hockey.

Poster Title: Barriers and Betrayal: Why Are Reports of Campus Sexual Misconduct So Low Among U.S. College Students?
Student: AnnaSage Rothe
Faculty Advisor: Erica Hannickel and Jessica Eckhardt

Poster

Abstract
Barriers and Betrayal: Why Are Reports of Campus Sexual Misconduct So Low Among U.S. College Students?
AnnaSage Rothe – Sociology and Social Justice & Gender and Women’s Studies
Northland College
April 8, 2021

This study focuses on barriers to reporting campus sexual misconduct among Northland College students as previous research has shown high frequencies of underreporting such instances across U.S. college campuses. The research explores what contributes to underreporting of campus sexual misconduct, students’ level of understanding the college’s Title IX Sexual and Gender-Based Misconduct policy, and if Title IX policy itself correlates to underreporting. In other words, are Title IX policy, processes, and subsequent misconceptions a barrier to reporting campus sexual misconduct for American college students? To test the hypotheses, a survey was administered among Northland College students measuring their experiences, attitudes, beliefs, and perceptions regarding campus sexual misconduct, Title IX, reporting, and “institutional betrayal” on campus. The findings indicate that rates of campus sexual misconduct and underreporting remain high. In addition, underreporting is facilitated by the very structure of Title IX and a campus culture that mistrusts and misunderstands the policy and its administration.  The current study argues that reporting of campus sexual misconduct remains low among U.S. college students due to the workings of rape culture that ultimately encourages silence, victim-blaming, and downplaying the severity around such instances, but also because of the structure and misunderstanding of Title IX Sexual and Gender-Based policy across U.S. college campuses. If the goal of Title IX policy is to diminish and eradicate sexual misconduct, underreporting, and rape culture on college campuses, the findings from this study must be addressed.

Poster Title: From Samurai to Friends of the West Japan’s Search For Identity in a Turbulent World
Student: Erik Stensaas
Faculty Advisor: Erica Hannickel

Poster

Abstract
From Samurai to Friends of the West
Japan’s Search For Identity in a Turbulent World (Abstract)
Erik Stensaas, Dr. Erica Hannickel
Senior Seminar
March 28, 2021

Ever since the beginning of the Shogunates began in Japan in 1185 CE, Japan has been emulating the countries in the West like in Britain and France. Proof of this can be seen in their hierarchy from that point on and how similar it was to Europe’s by sheer coincidence. After America opened Japan’s borders to the rest of the world in 1853, it evolved its style of government and control into something further resembling European powers in an effort to stay independent, unlike in China, whose power and prestige quickly dwindled after European powers had defeated them time and again and asserting their rule and taking over. Because of this, the Japanese were able to adopt policies similar to those in Europe all on their own by sending ambassadors to other countries to learn how to become like them. This led to Japan becoming even more like the West, not only in its political design, but throughout cultural influences as well. They even conquered land owned by Western countries like Russia and Germany at the turn of the twentieth century. Yet despite attempting to create a strong democracy in the 1920s, once the Great Depression hit, they became something similar to the Nazis by doing atrocities like the Rape of Nanjing and even experimenting weapons on civilians of captured lands like in Manchuria. This was done to ensure national security and economic movement. Once the United States defeated them in World War II, they shifted into becoming a combination of the United States and the United Kingdom. This created a culture that became one of the most accepting in all of the world, and the most technologically advanced country on the planet. Authors like Linus Hagstrom, Richard Bush and David Spafford are all excellent experts on Japan which this essay will provide information about. The importance of this project is to show the Western countries that the East has power and significance comparable to the West. By learning about the East and the ways of life that the countries there have, particularly Japan since they are constantly looking for ways to improve their way of life, we can find ways to to improve our own way of life.

Poster Title: Corruption or Salvation in the World’s Most Beautiful Game? The Global Cultural Work of the FIFA World Cup
Student: Brad Whiles
Faculty Advisor: Erica Hannickel

Poster

Abstract
Corruption Or Salvation In The World’s Most Beautiful Game?
The Global Cultural Work of the FIFA World Cup
Brad Whiles, Humanities
Northland College
April 1, 2021

The FIFA World Cup is not just any competitive tournament, it brings together more than just world-class teams in a grand celebration of the sport of soccer. This project is a dive into the cultural work of the FIFA World Cup, the multiple cultural resources it has offered to its global audience. These take place amidst the deep stories about FIFA’s ongoing corruption. This project finds that on balance, soccer is still the world’s most beautiful game, presented in its beautiful form.

Poster Title: Examining Past and Current White-tailed Deer and Snowshoe Hare Abundance, Apostle Islands, Wisconsin
Student: Natalie Erler
Faculty Advisor: Erik Olson

Poster

Abstract
Examining Past and Current White-tailed Deer and Snowshoe Hare Abundance, Apostle Islands, Wisconsin
Natalie Erler and Erik Olson
April 1, 2021

White-tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) and Snowshoe Hare (Lepus americanus) are two of the most important prey species inhabiting the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Both species are herbivores feeding on a wide variety of plant, grass, and shrub species. However, the Apostle Islands houses an important and rare vegetative community that is in jeopardy due to overbrowsing by both species. Canada Yew (Taxus canadensis) is a very slow growing shrub that was in high concentrations on the islands, but browsing by White-tailed Deer has decimated this species and ultimately set in motion an irreversible change in the vegetative community found on the islands. Although Snowshoe Hare are an important prey species, especially on islands that don’t have deer, they have seldom been studied and little is known about their distribution and abundance across the islands. This study aims to compare past and current abundance of White-tailed Deer and Snowshoe Hare on the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore by looking at the presence and relative abundance of both species. This was done through a collaborative processing of camera trap images from trail cameras set up on the Apostle Islands since 2014. I was able to compile and analyze this data to give a current picture of these two species on the islands. By analyzing these aspects, we can get a better understanding of which islands White-tailed Deer could possibly overbrowse next, in addition to having baseline data for Snowshoe Hare distribution on the Apostle Islands.

Poster Title: Photographic techniques for documenting and quantifying biofluorescence through color quantization.
Student: Emma Hakanson
Faculty Advisor: Jon Martin

Poster

Abstract
Techniques for Documenting and Quantifying Biofluorescence through Digital Photography and Color Quantization.
Emma C. Hakanson¹, Jonathan G. Martin¹, Paula S. Anich¹, & Kevin J. Hakanson²  

¹ Department of Natural Resources, Northland College, 1411 Ellis Avenue, Ashland, WI 54806, USA
² Private Software Consultant, Savage, MN 55378, USA

Ultraviolet (UV) biofluorescence events are being discovered with increasing frequency; however, there is not yet a standard photographic methodology to document and easily quantify these phenomena. Here, we describe how low-cost, high-quality photographs of biofluorescent specimens can be used to quantify fluorescence via color quantization, utilizing K-means clusters within the CIELAB color space. We also address the complexity of photographing different excitation and emission wavelengths. We applied this technique to Glaucomys volans specimens to quantify color shift between illumination under visible and UV light, directly compare photos of different specimens, and analyze which shades of the focal color are most prevalent on each individual. This relatively simple methodology can be adapted to future studies based on the color of their subjects’ fluorescence and the goals of the project. The general principles are applicable to all studies utilizing photographs of ultraviolet fluorescence.

Poster Title: Using Anglersheds to Explain Catch Rate Differences Among Local, Non-Local, and Non-Resident Anglers of the Northern Highland Fishery Research Area Lakes
Student: Michael J.Lant
Faculty Advisor: Derek Ogle

Poster

Abstract
Using Anglersheds to Explain Catch Rate Differences Among Local, Non-local, and Non-resident anglers of the Northern Highland Fishery Research Area Lakes
Michael Lant
Northland Poster Symposium 2021

An understanding of angler catch rate characteristics related to proximity of residence to lakes (local, non-local, non-resident) is important for informing fisheries management. The Northern Highland Fishery Research Area compulsory creel census records zip code data from all anglers fishing Escanaba, Nebish, and Pallette lakes near Boulder Junction, Vilas County, Wisconsin. We developed anglersheds, area anglers travel to use a particular resource, to understand where Northern Highlands Fishery Research Area anglers were coming from. We used this zip code data to develop species-specific anglersheds and compared Walleye, Muskellunge, Smallmouth Bass, and Yellow Perch catch rates among local (Vilas, Oneida counties), non-local (Dane, Milwaukee counties), and non-state resident anglers. Species-specific anglersheds varied by angler residence. Species-specific angler success (fishing effort required to catch one fish) was consistently higher for local anglers; however, non-local and non-state resident anglers were also quite successful. Therefore, our results suggest a need to manage not only for local anglers, but also for non-local (tourist) anglers. The common assumption that local anglers have greater fishing success may not hold for northern Wisconsin sport fisheries.

Poster Title: Estimating Fish Age: Influence of Maximum Age, Structure, and Comparison Type on Precision
Student: Gordon Scott
Faculty Advisor: Derek Ogle

Poster

Abstract
Estimating Fish Age: Influence of Maximum Age, Structure, and Comparison Type on Precision
Gordon Scott, Derek Ogle

Fish age estimates are instrumental for proper understanding of fish population dynamics. Ages are often estimated from readings of various calcified structures (otoliths, spines and finrays, and scales), either multiple times by one individual (within-reader), or one time each from multiple individuals (between-reader). The precision, or repeatability of these readings, is most often measured by the average coefficient of variation (ACV). The 1447 points of precision data included in this study have been collected from 449 papers in the fisheries literature from 1983 to 2021. In this study, we assessed the effects of calcified structures examined and the type of readings taken on mean ACV, as well as on the relationship between log maximum estimated age and log ACV. We found that mean ACV did not differ by comparison type but did differ by structure types, with otoliths being significantly different from spines and finrays (combined) and scales, which did not differ from each other. Furthermore, we found that the relationship between log between-reader ACV and log maximum age differed by structure type, but only between otoliths and spines and finrays combined. For all structures, log within-reader ACV and log maximum age displayed a negative relationship that did not differ among structures. Log between-reader ACV and log maximum age also displayed a negative relationship, but only for spines+finrays. These results suggest that ACV may not be independent of structure examined or maximum estimated age in some cases.

Poster Title: Factors of Invertebrate Community Dominance in Great Lakes Coastal Wetlands
Student: Ella Shively
Faculty Advisor: Matt Cooper

Poster

Abstract
Invertebrate Community Dominance in Great Lakes Coastal Wetlands
Factors of Invertebrate Community Dominance in Great Lakes Coastal Wetlands
Ella Shively, Matt Cooper

Despite the role invertebrates play in providing ecosystem services, many invertebrate taxa are understudied and invertebrate biomass is declining globally. Determining variables that affect invertebrate community structure is important for managing healthy ecosystems and protecting invertebrate diversity. Understanding invertebrate community dynamics is particularly important in Great Lakes Coastal Wetlands (GLCWs), which provide vital ecological services to the inhabitants of the Great Lakes basin. In this study, we examined GLCW invertebrate community dominance and composition using a basin-wide dataset from the Great Lakes Coastal Wetland Monitoring Program. First, we studied potential drivers of community dominance. We found marginal differences in dominance among lakes, vegetation types, and wetland geomorphic types. Water quality was negatively correlated with dominance. Next, we studied community composition to determine whether GLCWs with similar dominance scores were dominated by similar taxa and functional groups. The most abundant taxa basin-wide were Chironomidae, Hyalella azteca, Gammaridae, and Oligochaeta. Chironomidae abundance negatively correlated with a water quality index, but the other top taxa did not correlate with water quality. We found no clear geographic pattern in the distribution of top-ranked taxa. However, collector-gatherers dominated communities across the basin. Therefore, low functional diversity may explain the simultaneous high taxonomic diversity and high dominance values in GLCWs. Likely, there are many factors influencing community dominance and understanding these drivers of community structure will help managers to maintain healthy wetland ecosystems and track changes in GLCWs over time.

Poster Title: Legendary War Heroes or Forgotten Warriors? Reconciling the Legacy of the Navajo Code Talkers
Student: Kaibah Hopper
Faculty Advisor: Erica Hannickel

Poster

Abstract
Legendary War Heroes or Forgotten Warriors?
Reconciling the Legacy of the Navajo Code Talkers with the U.S.’s Short-Term Collective Memory
Kaibah Hopper
Native American Studies
Northland College
April 1, 2021

The Navajo Code Talkers are credited with the creation of an “unbreakable code” used for World War II’s combat communication from mid-1942 until Japan’s surrender in 1945. Despite this claim to fame, American society can’t seem to make up its mind on the visibility and renown of the Navajo Code Talkers. Google search results bring up contradictory descriptive quips, ranging from the “you may have heard of” and “famous Code Talkers” to the “little known unit” and “obscure chapter of history” type headlines. But crack open any U.S. textbook covering WWII and you will be hard pressed to find any inclusion of the Code Talkers. Few school curriculums cover the topic exhaustively; even fewer students learn about it at all. History is often centered around the conflicts of white or western cultures, even in wars in which native peoples were heavily involved. Many histories of the United States often portray the roles of native peoples as small or insignificant, with some historians neglecting to consider native involvement at all. The Navajo Code Talkers are just one example of an oft unrecognized faction of indigenous peoples central to U.S. victories in WWII. Even on the reservation, where the story of the Navajo Code Talkers used to be more commonly taught in schools and passed on as story, more recently citizens of the Navajo Nation fear this be changing for the worse. In considering the use of Navajo language and culture in such a crucial war, we can recenter the narrative of Indigenous peoples in America as modern and ingrained in modern history.

Poster Title: Northland College Outdoor Orientation Incident Analysis, 2017-2019, and Recommendations for the Future
Student: Josh Keske
Faculty Advisor: Evan Coulson

Poster

Abstract
Northland College Outdoor Orientation Incident Analysis, 2017-2019, and Recommendations for the Future
Josh Keske
Northland College
March 31, 2021

Northland College’s Outdoor Orientation (OO) Program has a rich history of introducing incoming students to the Northwoods by taking them into the outdoors since 1976. The OO program keeps incident reports to record any accidents that happen during the program. Analyzing data from these reports is important to determine how the program can combat the likelihood of similar accidents happening in the future. This report compiles OO incident report data from 2017-2019. The purpose of this report is to determine the frequency, severity, and types of accidents that have occurred in the program and to uncover potential trends. This project also seeks to analyze the effectiveness of the current reporting system. Reports were digitized and the data were plotted and then compared to incident data from the National Outdoor Leadership School to examine trends. The method used for reporting incidents was also analyzed noting what types of forms were used and how completely the forms were filled out. No trends could be determined from the short time frame and the limited amount of data. However, results indicated that the types of incidents are commonly reported within the outdoor industry. Recommendations include implementing a comprehensive data collection method that involves capturing incident data as well as trip size, length, and type to facilitate program data analysis. The creation of a new incident report form that is easy and intuitive to fill out, is specific, and is taught to trip leaders during training is also recommended.

Poster Title: Assessing the Effects of Mindfulness on Self-reported Stress Levels
Student: Hannah Malison
Faculty Advisor: Danielle Sneyd

Poster

Abstract
Assessing the Effects of Mindfulness on Self-reported Stress Levels
Student Researcher: Hannah Malison
Faculty Supervisor: Danielle Sneyd

Mindfulness has been an increasing practice amongst people of all ages. The COVID pandemic has pushed individuals to seek new ways to find solitude and peace. Traditional therapy options have become difficult to access and loss of healthcare coverage due to unemployment are pushing the use of yoga, meditation, and other alternative forms of therapeutic treatment (Healthy Minds Network, 2020). The current study assessed 17 college-aged individuals for their perceived stress and happiness levels as well as their working memory function. Participants completed a pre-assessment to score their cognitive levels followed by engagement in a five-week series of mindfulness practice interventions. After the five-week intervention, a post-assessment was completed to analyze and compare scores with the intention to analyze the effects of mindfulness on a population susceptible to mental health disparities. The current study hypothesized that lower stress levels would be reported at time-2 compared to time-1 as a result of the mindfulness intervention. It was also hypothesized that higher subjective happiness scores would be reported at time-2 compared to time-1 as a result of the mindfulness intervention. In regards to working memory capacity, this variable was exploratory, thus it did not have a hypothesized result. The ability for mindfulness, a remote practice series of exercise to improve the quality of life of one of the most stressed populations in America can speak volumes to the benefit it could serve for future generations.

Poster Title: Music and Productivity
Student: Bianca N. McLemore
Faculty Advisor: Danielle Sneyd

Poster

Abstract
Music and Productivity
Bianca N. McLemore, Danielle Sneyd

Productivity: what is it exactly and why is it such a big part of how people value their self-worth? Productivity can be defined as the state or quality of producing something (Merriam-Webster 2021). The current study aimed to investigate if music could increase productivity on a reading-based task. The current study examined if playing classical music while doing a reading/language task would increase participants productivity on the task. Using Northland College as the population, a random sample of 41 participants was collected. To test this hypothesis, the participants were given the Reading and English sections of the American College Test (ACT); Half of the participants completed the test with classical music playing in the background, and the other half of the participants took the practice test with no music playing in the background. The results of the study suggested that classical music did not increase productivity on the test as there was no significant differences between the Music and No Music groups.  Possible reasons for this null finding will be discussed.

Poster Title: Barriers and Betrayal: Why Are Reports of Campus Sexual Misconduct So Low Among U.S. College Students?
Student: AnnaSage Rothe
Faculty Advisor: Erica Hannickel and Jessica Eckhardt

Poster

Abstract
Barriers and Betrayal: Why Are Reports of Campus Sexual Misconduct So Low Among U.S. College Students?
AnnaSage Rothe – Sociology and Social Justice & Gender and Women’s Studies
Northland College
April 8, 2021

This study focuses on barriers to reporting campus sexual misconduct among Northland College students as previous research has shown high frequencies of underreporting such instances across U.S. college campuses. The research explores what contributes to underreporting of campus sexual misconduct, students’ level of understanding the college’s Title IX Sexual and Gender-Based Misconduct policy, and if Title IX policy itself correlates to underreporting. In other words, are Title IX policy, processes, and subsequent misconceptions a barrier to reporting campus sexual misconduct for American college students? To test the hypotheses, a survey was administered among Northland College students measuring their experiences, attitudes, beliefs, and perceptions regarding campus sexual misconduct, Title IX, reporting, and “institutional betrayal” on campus. The findings indicate that rates of campus sexual misconduct and underreporting remain high. In addition, underreporting is facilitated by the very structure of Title IX and a campus culture that mistrusts and misunderstands the policy and its administration.  The current study argues that reporting of campus sexual misconduct remains low among U.S. college students due to the workings of rape culture that ultimately encourages silence, victim-blaming, and downplaying the severity around such instances, but also because of the structure and misunderstanding of Title IX Sexual and Gender-Based policy across U.S. college campuses. If the goal of Title IX policy is to diminish and eradicate sexual misconduct, underreporting, and rape culture on college campuses, the findings from this study must be addressed.

Poster Title: Comparison of Drinking Behaviors Between Athletes and Nonathletes
Student: Camryn Smith
Faculty Advisor: Danielle Sneyd

Poster

Abstract
Comparison of Drinking Behaviors Between Athletes and Nonathletes
Camryn Smith, Danielle Sneyd

Binge drinking predominantly exists within college-aged students, and prior research indicates binge drinking behaviors to affect college athletes more than college nonathletes  (Ford 2007; Lewis 2008). The current study hypothesized that college athletes have higher rates of binge drinking because of social norms related to alcohol use and alcohol-related consequences compared to college students who are not current athletes. A  survey was sent out to Northland College students which included alcohol use questions and the Rutgers Alcohol Problem Index (RAPI). These questions were used to evaluate reported binge drinking behaviors and alcohol related consequences. The results showed no significance difference between student athletes and student nonathletes reports of alcohol related consequences on the RAPI. The most significant implication of this study is the effect of the Covid-19 pandemic on the results of the survey. On average during the pandemic, people have been more cautious and not socially drinking as often, as reflected in the results of this study. Students reported infrequent drinking, but at high levels during a single drinking occasion.

Poster Title: Cornucopia’s Main Street Revitalization Plan
Students: Fletcher Thomas and Alaina Kuhlman
Faculty Advisor: Brian Tochterman

Poster

Abstract
Cornucopia’s Main Street Revitalization Plan
Fletcher Thomas and Alaina Kuhlman, Brian Tochterman

Cornucopia is a small, rural village that is located in Northern Wisconsin on the south shore of Lake Superior. During the summer months Cornucopia experiences an influx of tourism due to the close proximity to the lake and the small town charm. We have been working with a few members of the community to create a plan for their main street to be updated in order to accommodate the rise in tourism over the past few years, while also maintaining the small, rural feel of Cornucopia. To determine how the residents of the community feel about our proposed changes and about the village in general, we sent out a survey to residents asking if they would like to see updates, what updates they would like to see, what aspects they would like to see preserved, and if Cornucopia provides a sense of place that could be improved by updates. We also asked citizens to identify how the main street plan can best highlight, support, and build on existing community capital while ensuring that the rural characteristics that make Cornucopia so unique are preserved. We found that the majority of survey respondents would like to see changes and updates made to the Main Street infrastructure as well as an increase in tourism in the area.

• Achievement Awards
• Departmental Awards and Honors
• Faculty Merit Awards

Achievement Awards

Bethel Sophomore Award
Tyrease James
Arthur J. Ingold Jr. – Julia R. Gilman Junior Award
Bridget Stroede
Wallace C. Hitchcock Memorial Award
Ella Shively

Departmental Awards and Honors

Steen-Tucker Award
Emily Hutler
Henry J. Fitzgibbon Music Award
Emily Hutler
William Kelsey Howison Music Award
Katrina Zimmer
Donald Albrecht Art Award
Sierra Watson
Charles Twining Memorial Award
AnnaSage Rothe
Environmental Science and Natural Resources Faculty Award
Taylor Wittman
Maria Lefevre
Reane Loiselle
Ella Shively
Abigail Spiers
Dakota Stankowski
Khousheng Moua
Leah Kiser
James P. Fennessey Award in Chemistry
Dakota Stankowski
Matthew Berg Endowed Award
Adrian Bethel
Nicholas C. Bystrom Award in Mathematics and Statistics
Taylor Wittman
Tim Carpenter Memorial Award
Michael Lant
Bruce Goetz Tools of the Trade Award
Evelyn Doolittle
Bruce Alan Goetz Geosciences Award
Reane Loiselle
Mary Griggs Burke Center for Freshwater Innovation Award
Jordan Bremer
The Parker Matzinger Internships of Impact Award
Tori Chevalier
James E. Meeker Award for Excellence in Natural Resources Research
Emma Hakanson
Ella Shively
Mayme Raszkowski Stewart Award
Coriander Dehlin
Garis Hagstrom Memorial Award
Mandelyn Lyons
Outstanding Achievement in Sustainable Community Development
Jaclynn Findlay
Chue Lee Chang
Outstanding Business Student Award
Lee Dennis
Outdoor Education Outstanding Professional Potential Awards
Luna Anderson-Duggan
Grace Pence
Isabella Salinas
Outdoor Education Outstanding Senior Award
Josh Keske
Outdoor Education Outstanding Junior Award
Macy Cunningham
Outdoor Education Outstanding Sophomore Award
Joey Eldridge
Teacher Education: Distinction in Elementary/Middle Student Teaching Award

Amelia Olson
Teacher Education: Distinction in Secondary Education/Social Studies Teaching Award
Alex Carey

Faculty Merit Awards

Outstanding Service Award
Dr. Angela Stroud
Outstanding Scholarship/Professional Activities Award
Dr. Paula Spaeth-Anich
Dr. Erik Olson
Dr. Jonathan Martin
Dr. Sharon Anthony
Dr. Michaela Carlson
Dr. Alissa Hulstrand
Outstanding Teaching Award
Dr. Jennifer Kuklenski