Research interests are erosion and sedimentation processes by conducting applied multi-scale research studies of the hydrology, hydraulics, and channel character of Illinois watersheds. Current focus is on documenting and evaluating stream channel adjustment responses to watershed and channel disturbances in the various physiographic regions of Illinois that has application for the selection of stream restoration practices, as well as understanding the spatial, temporal, and physical context of different channel adjustment responses. Over 38 years experience in multi-scale watershed monitoring studies of hydrology, sediment, and nutrients for many Illinois watersheds including Lake Springfield, Upper Sangamon River, both Vermilion Rivers, Upper Embarras River tributaries, Kaskaskia River tributaries and Cache River Basin.
Serves as technical and or science advisor, as well as Water Survey representative, on dozens of committees ranging from watershed planning to state and federal interagency task forces to resolve hydrologic, sediment and nutrient watershed issues.
Principal Investigator for the Illinois Benchmark Sediment Monitoring Program (BSMP) activities and data analyses. The purpose of network is to determine long-term trends in sediment transport, estimate sediment loads in unmeasured watersheds, and target and evaluate long-term effectiveness of BMPs. Manages the ISWS Sediment Laboratory in Champaign.
Interim Director, Illinois State Water Survey: Support, facilitate and develop research endeavors as well as collaborations within and outside the Water Survey.