Clay Arango

Clay Arango serves as Professor and Department Chair at Central Washington University, specializing in biological sciences with a focus on human-induced alterations to stream ecosystem functions.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from University of Notre Dame (2007)
• M.S. in Natural Resource Management from Central Washington University (2001)

His research investigates nutrient cycling dynamics in freshwater systems, particularly how agricultural practices and restoration efforts impact carbon metabolism and nitrogen/phosphorus uptake in streams. Current projects examine biofilm nutrient limitations in salmon-bearing headwaters and whole-stream metabolic responses to human modifications, integrating field measurements with quantitative ecological modeling.

Publications from 2007-2009 reveal consistent emphasis on denitrification efficiency and nitrous oxide emissions in agriculturally impacted streams, often through large collaborative networks. Key themes include organic carbon's role in nutrient removal, spatial-temporal controls on nitrification, and agricultural runoff effects on greenhouse gas production, primarily in Midwestern U.S. watersheds.

As Department Chair, Dr. Arango oversees academic operations while teaching core courses including Fundamentals of Biology and Quantitative Methods. His office is located in Science Building 338A, with contact via Clay.Arango@cwu.edu.