Lori Sutter

I am broadly interested in the effects of climate change and other stressors on wetland function. My current research emphasizes the response of tidal marshes to sea-level rise and carbon sequestration in southeastern marshes. Through greenhouse and mesocosm experiments as well as field measurements / manipulations, my students and I investigate how tidal marshes respond to changing environmental drivers. My goal is to better understand the complex feedbacks between organisms and the changing environments that determine marsh resilience.

Education

PhD in Marine Science, Virginia Institute of Marine Science
MEM in Wetland Ecology, Duke University
BS in Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences, Texas A&M University
AA in Zoology, Kilgore College

Specialization in Teaching

Plant Physiology (BIO 340)
Ecology (BIO 366)
Wetlands (BIO 562)
Life at the Edge (BIO 495)

Coming Soon:
Marine Biology Practicum (BIO 490)
Coastal Animals and their Habitats (BIO 207)

Research Interests

My current research is best viewed through three primary areas: marsh response to global change especially sea-level rise, carbon/nutrient cycling, and restoration. Goals:

(1) To investigate and predict how tidal wetlands will respond to climate change, particularly sea-level rise, and identify the mechanisms that drive these changes.
(2) To evaluate and refine strategies for restoring and maintaining healthy wetland ecosystems, ensuring their resilience in the face of environmental stressors.
(3) To enhance understanding of carbon and nutrient cycling within wetlands, contributing to knowledge on how these processes support wetland health and function under changing environmental conditions.

More details at https://sutterl.wixsite.com/wetland-ecology-lab

Professional Service

Society of Wetland Scientists
2024-present: Human Diversity Committee member
2018-present: Ways and Means Committee
2018-2024: Treasurer

Coastal and Estuarine Research Federation
2024-present: First time conference attendee subcommittee co-chair
2024: Business Model Task Force member
2017, 2019, 2023-24: Rising TIDES Mentor

Community Engagement

SECOORA SET Regional Community of Practice
South Atlantic Salt Marsh Initiative | Metrics and Science committee
North Carolina SET Community of Practice

Honors & Awards

SWS President's Award