Spatiotemporal Analysis of the Lake Lanier Watershed: Assessing Environmental Change Over Time
Student Researcher
Helene Nilsson
University of North Georgia
Faculty Advisor
Dr. Amber Ignatius
Associate Professor of Geography and Geospatial Science University of North Georgia
Why This Research Matters
Rapid urbanization can create both opportunities and challenges for communities. While new development can strengthen regional economies, it may also influence environmental conditions and public health.
This research seeks to provide a scientific, data-driven understanding of how growth is affecting the Lake Lanier watershed. The findings will help local stakeholders, planners, and decision-makers better understand the relationships between development, environmental quality, and community well-being. By identifying environmental trends and potential areas of concern, the project supports sustainable growth and responsible resource management throughout North Georgia.
Project Overview
The Lake Sidney Lanier watershed is one of the most important environmental and economic resources in North Georgia, supplying drinking water to more than five million residents while supporting recreation, industry, and regional development. As the region experiences rapid growth, including major infrastructure projects such as the Gainesville Inland Port, understanding the environmental impacts of urbanization has become increasingly important.
Through support from a STEMNetX Research Grant, Helene Nilsson is conducting research under the mentorship of Dr. Amber Ignatius to investigate how development is affecting air quality, water quality, land cover, transportation patterns, and population distribution throughout the watershed. By integrating satellite imagery, environmental monitoring data, and advanced geospatial analysis techniques, this project will provide a comprehensive assessment of environmental change over time.
Research Goals
The objectives of this project include:
Quantifying changes in regional air quality using EPA monitoring stations and satellite-derived atmospheric data.
Mapping the growth of impervious surfaces such as roads, parking lots, and buildings throughout the watershed.
Assessing water quality indicators including chlorophyll-a concentrations, turbidity, and water temperature within Lake Lanier.
Evaluating transportation trends and population distribution using traffic datasets and census information.
Developing geospatial models and visualizations to better understand the environmental impacts of urban growth and infrastructure development.
Meet the Research Team
Helene Nilsson
Helene Nilsson is a second-year undergraduate student at the University of North Georgia pursuing a degree in Environmental & Spatial Analysis. During her time as a student, Helene has enjoyed research in GIS, geospatial statistics, remote sensing, and the ways in which those disciplines can be implemented into the fields of public health, epidemiology, environmental science, and history. Helene is an active member of the University of North Georgia's Geospatial Alliance Club and enjoys collaborating with faculty and fellow students in event planning and research. Following graduation, Helene hopes to pursue a Master's degree in Public Health or Geography. Helene is incredibly grateful to be accepted into the 2026 STEMNetX Fellowship Program and is eager to join this year's cohort and explore the amazing opportunities granted to her.
Dr. Amber Ignatius
Dr. Amber Ignatius is an accomplished geographer, educator, and researcher whose work integrates remote sensing, GIS, and environmental modeling to address ecological change. Currently an Associate Professor at the University of North Georgia’s Lewis F. Rogers Institute for Environmental & Spatial Analysis, she brings over a decade of experience spanning academic and applied science roles, including work with the U.S. EPA and USGS. Her research explores topics such as land conservation, reservoir impacts, water quality, vegetation dynamics, and harmful algal blooms, often using advanced geospatial technologies. Dr. Ignatius is also a dedicated mentor and instructor who fosters collaborative, inquiry-driven learning environments. She is passionate about teaching and driven by a commitment to lifelong learning and communication. Dr. Ignatius blends creativity and scientific expertise to inspire the next generation of scientists and decision-makers.
STEMNetX Impact
The STEMNetX Research Grant program supports undergraduate students and faculty mentors as they pursue innovative research projects that address real-world challenges. Through this project, Helene Nilsson is developing valuable skills in geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, environmental analysis, and scientific communication while contributing to a greater understanding of environmental change in North Georgia.
We are proud to support Helene Nilsson and Dr. Amber Ignatius as they advance research that promotes environmental stewardship, scientific discovery, and community impact.