Project properties
Title MSc or BSc thesis: Nutrient fertilization by dogs in natural areas
Group Plant Ecology and Nature Conservation Group
Project type thesis
Credits 12-36
Supervisor(s) Fons van der Plas
Examiner(s) Fons van der Plas
Contact info fons.vanderplas@wur.nl
Begin date 2023/10/01
End date 2027/12/31
Description Nutrient deposition is a large problem in the Netherlands, Europe and worldwide, which can hamper the biodiversity of various plant and animal groups. While we know that various sources, including agricultural activities, industry and traffic contribute to nutrient deposition, less is known about the relative importance of pet animals. Without such information, we poorly understand to which extent restrictions regarding the access of dogs to nature areas, or their leashing, could be effective in reducing nutrient deposition levels and hence in restoring or maintaining biodiversity.
With this BSc or MSc thesis project, you will estimate dog densities in various nature areas in the vicinity of Wageningen, and you will measure the N and P concentrations in urine and faeces samples. By doing so, you will be able to quantify dog-caused nitrogen and phosphorus emission levels and compare these to other sources of N and P emissions.
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