Published May 22, 2015
Dr. Sean Chenoweth, associate professor of geosciences at the University of Louisiana
at Monroe, will conduct research on fresh water wells and naturally-occurring sinkholes
on the island of Barbuda in the Eastern Caribbean this summer.
For three weeks, Chenoweth will measure the levels of salt in both the municipal and
secondary wells on the island. The data analysis and collection will continue for
two more years.
According to Chenoweth, the Barbuda population depends heavily on the municipal well
for drinking water. However, the freshwater aquifer has been stressed and over pumped
to the point that it has been contaminated with saltwater.
“I visited Barbuda a few years ago and noticed there was widespread unfamiliarity
among the general population about their freshwater supply,” Chenoweth said. “Some
of the misconceptions are: the water comes from a desalinization plant; if you boil
the water it is safe to drink; or if you add drink mix flavoring it is safe to drink.”
An accompanying education program will include findings from the field studies, water
conservation, and the effects of drinking salty water. Chenoweth will work with the
Barbuda Education Council to develop teaching materials to implement in local schools.
He will also work with the Antigua and Barbuda Government to create a public awareness
campaign concerning the environment and freshwater resources.
Chenoweth earned his Ph.D. at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in 2003, specializing
in geomorphology, remote sensing, and geographic information systems.
He has taught at ULM since 2003.
