Deon H. Knights

Deon’s research aims to improve our understanding of how hydrology and ecogeomorphic interactions control nutrient distribution in coastal systems. Deon uses numerical models, remotely sensed data, and field and lab experiments to evaluate the exchange of solutes between surface water, the subsurface, and the biome in coastal ecosystems. This has far-reaching environmental and societal consequences ranging from the health of local fisheries to global biogeochemical cycling.

His primary interest is understanding Arctic deltas' roles in controlling riverine flux to the Ocean. Using benthic biogeochemical processing rates and nutrient spiraling observations on the Mackenzie Delta, Northwest Territories, Canada, his research aims to predict the functionality of Arctic deltas in regulating nutrient flux to the coast. His group uses georeferenced channel models of deltas to simulate fluid, sediment, and solute flow under various seasonal and geomorphic conditions.

Locally, his research group looks at how urban wetlands created by beaver dam cascades limit contaminants derived from anthropogenic sources. His group looks at how newly created beaver bonds affect hyporheic exchange (surface water and groundwater mixing) and contaminant movement relative to beaver-free channels.

As part of his teaching and research, Deon looks at environmental justice issues by determining the likelihood of exposure to poor water quality in urban communities.