Laura Johnson

Laura Johnson is director of the National Center for Water Quality Research at Heidelberg University in Tiffin, Ohio. At the NCWQR, long-term monitoring of streams and rivers is used to examine the influence of human activities on water quality and help decide actions that lead to healthier ecosystems. Laura is best known for research examining the linkages between agricultural runoff and harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie. As director, she has overseen the expansion of the monitoring program, curriculum development in Watershed Science, revitalization of the Sandusky River Watershed Coalition, and has been part of numerous workgroups and advisory boards. Under her guidance since 2016, the NCWQR continues to be the gold standard for research in nonpoint source pollution in watersheds.

Courses Taught

WSS 210: Field Methods in Watershed Science

Research Interests

Watershed science, nutrient dynamics in freshwater ecosystems, land management