BY

There are many people and organizations that helped make my project possible. First I would like to thank Dr. Bruce Thomson, my advisor, who gave me the faith to execute my project. Dr. Thomson answered my millions of phone calls and e-mails, sometimes daily, thoroughly edited my work and helped give me direction when needed. I also want to thank Scott McKitrick for serving on my committee, answering my endless string of questions, editing my paper and helping guide my project. Dr. Julie Coonrod and Dr. Andrew Schuler for serving on my committee and offering guidance and direction. The wonderful people who helped me in Bolivia. Braulio, Basillica and their wonderful family opened their home to me in January and June. Suma Jayma who helped me collect samples and help me familiarize myself with the area. Jason Obergfell, who helped me in the field, helped me think issues through, identify critical sample areas, helped with translation and helped with project execution in the field. Joe Alvarez, who helped me with translation and field work, and has helped me keep an open line to the project site and has answered all of my last minute questions at an incredible speed, he has returned to the lab in La Paz numerous times to confirm results as well as collect additional information for me. Jason Gehrig who helped me familiariz