Field and Forest Stations of the Intermountain West
Biological field stations and experimental forests conduct significant long-term ecological research, provide important unbiased scientific research, and evaluate key environmental issues, such as climate change, pollution, and threatened wildlife habitats. They are often affiliated with universities, National Parks and Monuments, and the U.S Forest Service. Stations often vary in size and specific missions. Aquatic and agricultural research that takes scientists out of the classroom and laboratories to conduct hands-on research in biology, botany, ornithology, ichthyology, limnology, and entomology. Experimental forests dedicate their work to evaluating forest management options, forest and vegetation growth and development, as well as characteristics of various wildlife. Stations and forests also often invest in the next generation of scientists by training students from the undergraduate to doctoral level to observe natural processes, develop hypothesis, and learn to critically contemplate environmental concerns. Many also develop and provide educational outreach programs for the public and for K-12 schools in order to engage their communities in the importance of ecological studies.
The Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory
Transformed from the abandoned ruins of a silver boomtown, the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory is internationally known for its research in high-altitude ecology.
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Manitou Experimental Forest
Expanding from forest, range, and watershed studies, the Manitou Experimental Forest in Colorado continues its research in meteorology, ecology, and biology, spreading the importance of renewable resources and forest lands to the public.
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Fort Valley Experimental Forest Station
The study of ponderosa pine regeneration in northern Arizona’s Fort Valley Experimental Forest Station helps us preserve the nation’s unique forests after damage and depletion caused by excessive logging and livestock grazing.
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Flathead Lake Biological Station
As the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River, Flathead Lake is the jewel of the “Crown of the Continent” ecosystem of northwest Montana. Scientists have studied the botany and zoology of this lake at the Flathead Lake Biological Station since 1899, making it the second oldest active station in the nation.
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Capitol Reef Field Station
Committed to conservation and limiting human impact on the environment, Capitol Reef Field Station works in tandem with Utah Valley University and the Capitol Reef National Park to teach students and visitors about the importance of preserving exceptional ecosystems in the Colorado Plateau.
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Organization of Biological Field Stations. “What are Field Stations?” https://obfst.memberclicks.net/ (accessed April 5, 2019).
United States Department of Agriculture. “Experimental Forests.” https://www.nrs.fs.fed.us/ef/ (accessed April 5, 2019).