Heather Bechtold

Heather Bechtold is a Professor of Biology in the Department of Biological and Health Sciences at Lock Haven University, where she is also affiliated with the Watershed Ecology Center (WEC). Her work bridges aquatic and terrestrial ecosystem science, with a strong focus on human and natural disturbances affecting watershed function.

Research Interests: Her research investigates how changes in forest structure—driven by climate change, pest invasions, acid deposition, and restoration—affect stream nutrient dynamics and metabolism. She also studies the impacts of natural disturbances like hurricanes and landslides, as well as novel contaminants such as pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and nanoparticles, on ecosystem function. Her fieldwork spans natural, agricultural, and urban watersheds.

Publication Trends: Her recent publications reveal a consistent focus on ecosystem resilience, nutrient cycling, and contaminant impacts in stream environments. Themes include pharmaceutical pollution, forest age effects on streams, microbial community responses, and innovative methods like photodegrading dyes for light measurement. Much of her work is collaborative and often includes undergraduate researchers.

• Scientific Awards: No awards are mentioned in the provided text.

Advising and Grants: Dr. Bechtold actively mentors undergraduate students, as evidenced by numerous student-coauthored publications and presentations at regional and national conferences. She has guided research on topics including invasive earthworms, pesticide effects, firing range pollutants, and microbial responses to contamination. Her collaborations with agencies like the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission suggest involvement in funded projects.

Labs and Teams: She leads research through the Watershed Ecology Center at Lock Haven University, where she conducts field and laboratory studies on stream ecosystems. Her team includes undergraduate researchers and collaborators from institutions such as the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies, Cornell University, and Bloomsburg University.