b'Sediments Found Along the Little and Withlacoochee RiversChristopher R. RobinsonAdviser: Dr. Donald M. ThiemeSediments at the Troupville River Camp (TRC), juncture of the Little and Withlacoochee Rivers west of Valdosta, Ga, were investigated to determine age and composition. The location investigated is a ridge standing approximately three meters above the river floodplain, oriented parallel to the river. We extracted cores at the base of two soil pits (TP1 and TP2) and measured the sand size distribution and organic matter content for samples from TP2. Based upon our results and a single 14C age, we have identified an interval of probable eolian sand deposition above organic matter dated to 230 CE (1720 cal BP). Our results extend the boundaries of previously identified dune features located along the rivers of the Coastal Plain in Georgia.Analysis of Lunar Regolith SimulantDylan C. YoungSponsor:Dr. Martha LeakeThe purpose of this project is to examine and check for potential uses of lunar regolith with the goal of growing food for human habitation on the Moon. Tested here are the possibilities that seeds will germinate in lunar regolith. Using a commercial lunar simulant, kale seeds, water and exposure to sunlight, with varying amounts of fertilizer, we test: the physical characteristics of the lunar simulant; the germination of kale seeds with only lunar simulant, water, and sunlight; and the germination of kale seeds using mixtures of simulant and commercial fertilizers. Using standard geological microscopic analysis of the lunar simulant, I plan to identify minerals and test permeability and porosity. I used a series of experiments to test whether the kale seeds will germinate. Experiment 1 consisted of only simulant, a kale seed, and water exposed to sunlight over 3 weeks: no germination occurred. Further experiments tested mixtures of simulant and commercial fertilizer, water, and sunlight, with one possible successful germination. Mixing ratios of simulant and organics will be reported. Initial results show that organic rich Earth soil must be added to the lunar regolith for successful germination to occur. Other considerations such as UV exposure will be discussed.48'