Join us on November 13th during Stormwater Awareness Week for an unmissable presentation led by Dr. Melissa Driessnack, a Postdoctoral Research Associate with the Washington Stormwater Center at Washington State University. In her talk, Melissa will delve into the urgent environmental issue of 6PPD-quinone (6PPDQ), a chemical leaching from vehicle tires, which has been identified as a key contributor to pre-spawn mortality in coho salmon in the Pacific Northwest. This groundbreaking discovery has reshaped our understanding of tire-related contaminants and their pervasive effects on aquatic ecosystems.

Melissa will share unique insights into the link between stormwater pollution and aquatic health. Her presentation will take you through the journey of discovery—how a collaborative research team identified 6PPDQ as a primary toxicant to coho salmon, and what has since been revealed about its impacts on other species and ecosystems. She will also discuss the latest research being conducted at the Washington State University Puyallup Research and Extension Center, where she and other researchers are working to understand the broader ecological consequences of 6PPDQ and other tire-related chemicals. With a Ph.D. in aquatic toxicology and extensive experience in evaluating chemical impacts on ecosystems, Melissa brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for protecting our water resources.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from an expert about one of today’s most pressing environmental issues and what steps might be taken to address it. Register now to attend Melissa’s presentation on November 13th at noon, and be part of the conversation on preserving aquatic life in the face of emerging chemical pollutants.