Daniella Hanacek

My research is focused on understanding the carbon sequestration potential of tidal marshes in the Chesapeake Bay. We will compare ecological and biogeochemical conditions in natural and restored marshes to inform tidal marsh management and restoration.

My interest in the aquatic world – stemming from adventures throughout the Chesapeake Bay and nearby Coastal Bays – led me to study biology at St. Mary's College of Maryland. While there, I caught the fieldwork bug during my senior year research project on oyster restoration in the St. Mary’s River. After graduation, I spent some time on field crews with Maryland Department of Energy and Department of Natural Resources, sampling stream water and conducting fish surveys, and worked as a marine conservation intern. After that, I spent two years in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, as a research assistant at the Marine Biological Laboratory. I returned to Maryland and joined the Horn Point Laboratory in the summer of 2019 to get a Masters in Ecological Systems.

I am excited to be back on the Chesapeake! As a master’s student here at Horn Point Laboratory, my research is focused on understanding the carbon sequestration potential of tidal marshes in the Chesapeake Bay. This project will use a combination of ecological and biogeochemical methods to compare conditions in natural and restored marshes and inform tidal marsh management and restoration. After completing my degree, I hope to continue research on estuarine ecosystems. Other aspirations include hiking the Appalachian Trail and learning to play guitar.

Advisors: Lorie Staver, Jeff Cornwell