Date of Award

Spring 5-10-2025

Level of Access Assigned by Author

Open-Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Earth Sciences

First Committee Advisor

Jiaze Wang

Second Committee Member

Margaret Estapa

Third Committee Member

Hannah Baranes

Abstract

Coastal wetlands are critical carbon sinks, sequestering carbon at rates significantly higher than terrestrial ecosystems. However, methane outgassing from these environments can offset their carbon sequestration potential. This study investigates methane dynamics in intertidal wetlands at Wells, Maine, focusing on the impacts of geomorphological and interannual hydrological variability. A reactive transport model was adapted to simulate methane fluxes in both sloped and sharp-edged geomorphologies under varying water level conditions. The results highlight the significant role of geomorphology and regional water level dynamics in modulating methane emissions. The study underscores the importance of considering spatial and temporal variability in methane fluxes from coastal wetlands, which are crucial for understanding greenhouse gas budgets and informing strategies for managing carbon emissions.

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