Dr. Alex Koiter specializes in agri-environmental systems research focused on land and water management practices and their implications for soil and water quality
Research Keywords
- Watershed science
- Soil quality
- Water quality
- Agriculture
- Environment
Research Summary
My research focuses on the movement and management of soil and water in agricultural landscapes. Healthy soils and clean water are essential for both food production and environmental health. In agricultural settings, rainfall and snowmelt can carry soil and nutrients from fields into streams and rivers. Understanding how and why soil moves is important for developing on-farm soil and water management practices that support productive farming while protecting the environment, and also helps anticipate how these systems may respond to changes in climate.
I also investigate soil microplastics, small plastic particles that accumulate in soils. These can arise from local sources, such as agricultural practices, or from more distant sources, brought in via various environmental pathways. These particles can have a negative impact on the soil and can affect plant growth, threatening soil health and sustainability. In addition to my field research, I am a strong advocate for open and reproducible science. Sharing data, methods, and workflows promotes transparency, allows others to verify results, and helps future research build on existing knowledge more effectively.
Courses Taught
- 38:278 Geomorphology
- 38:290 Global Environmental Change
- 38:291 Soil Science
- 38:435 Soils and Prairie Landscape
- 48:663 Science Seminar Series
Teaching Summary
I enjoy teaching because it allows me to connect theory and practical techniques with real-world applications. It is rewarding to help students develop a strong data-driven approach to problem solving. I want to ensure students have the tools and skills they need to critically analyze issues and apply their knowledge effectively.
Service Activities
- I am a member of the Brandon University Research Committee because I value and want to support research at BU. As part of this committee I hope to foster a strong research culture and promote outreach and knowledge mobilization.
- I serve as the Environmental Science Program Coordinator to help students navigate the program and ensure their success. Environmental Science is a multidisciplinary program and can be difficult to navigate as it requires students to take courses across different departments. I value Environmental Science as a discipline and want to ensure that this program remains robust, provides a strong foundation, and is great experience for every student.